High Commissioner Zwart and Second Secretary (Development) Meg Williams recently visited the picturesque Katangan community in New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea, to witness firsthand the impactful work being carried out under the Climate Resilient Islands (CRI) programme. This initiative, delivered by the environmental organisation Live & Learn and supported by the New Zealand International Development Cooperation programme, aims to strengthen the resilience of vulnerable island communities facing the challenges of climate change.
Katangan, one of eight communities engaged in the CRI programme across New Ireland, exemplifies a proactive approach where local leaders are integrating traditional knowledge with innovative, nature-based solutions. Their collaborative efforts focus on securing long-term water availability and enhancing food system resilience, critical factors for sustaining livelihoods in a changing climate. The programme supports the community in adopting sustainable practices that protect natural resources, reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events, and ensure food and water security for future generations.
The visit allowed High Commissioner Zwart and Ms. Williams to engage directly with community members, gaining valuable insights into their experiences, challenges, and successes. The Katangan community’s warm hospitality and openness in sharing their stories reflect their strong commitment and determination to adapt and thrive despite environmental uncertainties.
This partnership between the New Zealand Government, Live & Learn, and the Katangan community represents a meaningful step forward in climate adaptation and sustainable development. It highlights the power of combining global support with local knowledge to build resilient communities. The New Zealand team expressed their gratitude to the people of Katangan for their collaboration and welcomed the opportunity to continue supporting their journey towards a climate-resilient future.