A series of engagements and consultations to inform stakeholders on the importance of Social and Environmental Safeguard assessments was held at West New Britain by the Sustainable Financing Project team (GEF6) from June 17 – 25.

The trip included various engagements with the West New Britain Provincial Government (WNDPG) and local communities within project sites including the Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMA) of Kimbe Bay. Altogether, a total of 303 participants (215 males and 88 females) attended over nine community stakeholder workshops and meetings covering 7 local communities within Kimbe Bay.

One such meeting was held at the Liamo Reef Resort and was attended by 21 participants from the WNBPG, not-for profit organisations, the private sector and local communities along Kimbe Bay to discuss social and environment safeguards and sustainable financing of LMMAs.

The Project’s Manager, Ted Mamu and representatives from CEPA, gave an overview of what is required by local communities and various stakeholders, when to be involved, how they can participate and benefit from the Project.

The Project will extend the Government of Papua New Guinea’s ability to fulfil its protected area mandate and further the implementation of the national protected area policy.

This will provide more stable and long-term financial resources and contribute to improving management effectiveness in protected areas in PNG.