Simbu and Enga Provinces Step Up for Climate Resilience with PNG Climate FIRST
November 1, 2024
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Papua New Guinea, November 01, 2024 — Simbu and Enga Provinces are leading the way in climate resilience with the launch of the PNG Climate FIRST project, a bold new initiative aimed at empowering local communities to combat the impacts of climate change. The project’s inception and stakeholder consultation workshops were held in Kundiawa (Simbu) on October 23 and in Wabag (Enga) on October 25, marking a significant step in strengthening climate-adaptive development across Papua New Guinea.
The PNG Climate FIRST project, a collaboration between the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA), and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), is funded by the Australian Government with an AUD 20 million investment under the PNG-Australia Climate Change Action Plan (PACCAP). This initiative is designed to enhance institutional coordination for climate finance, enabling PNG to access both domestic and international resources to foster climate resilience.
The workshops brought together 65 participants in Simbu and 45 in Enga, including government officials, community leaders, civil society representatives, and private sector stakeholders. The discussions focused on local climate risks, sustainable resource management, and setting strategic priorities for climate-resilient development in these provinces.
“Together, we are building a stronger, climate-resilient future for PNG,” said William Lakain, General Manager of CCDA. “By fostering local partnerships and prioritizing sustainable, locally led interventions, we can ensure that both our people and ecosystems are well-equipped to face the challenges of climate change.”
The PNG Climate FIRST project is a critical component of the government’s commitment to integrating climate resilience into provincial development plans. Sandis Tsaka, Enga Provincial Administrator, expressed his province’s enthusiasm, stating, “Enga is honored to be part of the Phase 1 Climate Resilience Green Growth Project and excited to scale up our climate action through Phase II of the Climate FIRST project.”
In line with PNG’s commitment to inclusivity, the Climate FIRST project also emphasizes Gender Equity, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), ensuring that vulnerable and marginalized groups, such as women, people with disabilities, and remote communities, are central to the resilience-building process.
Since its official launch on March 11, 2024, by Powes Parkop, Governor of the National Capital District, the Climate FIRST project has been rolled out in seven provinces, with Simbu and Enga now among the key pilot areas. All participating provinces have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with CCDA and GGGI, establishing a clear framework for collaboration in achieving climate adaptation goals.
Australia’s commitment to supporting PNG’s climate resilience was underscored by James Bolt from the Australian High Commission, who stated, “Australia is proud to partner with the PNG Government and GGGI in developing climate investment proposals that reflect local priorities, ensuring PNG receives the climate financing needed to tackle climate change.”
GGGI’s Regional Director, Saki Tuisolia, emphasized the importance of community-driven initiatives, saying, “These workshops provide a crucial opportunity to align local needs with national climate policies, driving sustainable development and long-term resilience.”
Moving forward, GGGI, CCDA, and DFAT will continue working closely with stakeholders in Simbu and Enga to transform insights from the workshops into actionable projects, helping to strengthen the region’s adaptive capacity to climate change, foster economic development, and support PNG’s broader climate goals.
About GGGI
The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) is an international organization committed to supporting and promoting strong, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth in developing countries and emerging economies. GGGI partners with countries to integrate green growth into their development agendas, addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable resource management.
About CCDA
The Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) is Papua New Guinea’s lead government agency responsible for coordinating climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives. CCDA works to develop and implement policies that address climate change impacts while promoting sustainable development across the country.
About DFAT
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian Government fosters international cooperation, supporting sustainable development and resilience initiatives worldwide.
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For more information, visit: https://gggi.org
Contact:
Jason Pundu
Provincial Projects Officer – Eastern Highlands
Kelly Vacala
Regional Communications and Knowledge Sharing Officer