USAID supports conservation biodiversity training in Simbu Province, PNG

Success Stories May 15, 2022

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has the third largest intact tropical rainforest in the world, 98 percent of which is under traditional ownership. Rich in biodiversity, this rainforest is under increasing pressure as the country develops. When people are educated about the importance of biodiversity to their wellbeing and livelihood, they are empowered to make informed decisions about how to sustainably use their natural resources.

 

USAID’s PNG Lukautim Graun Program (LGP) provides biodiversity conservation education through its partnership with community-based organizations such as the Mauberema Eco-Tourism Nature Conservation Education Research and Training Centre (MENCERTC). MENCERTC is a hub for research, awareness, and training in biodiversity conservation and livelihood skills, with a specific focus on empowering women through entrepreneurial skills and financial literacy programs.

 

In 2022, USAID’s LGP supported five students to be trained by PNG’s University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) to complete eight weeks of research and training in biodiversity and conservation with MENCERTC. The students gained valuable practical experience working in conservation sites and participated directly in conservation activities. The students graduated on February 11, 2022. Facilitated by USAID’s LGP, a new MOU between MENCERTC and UNRE will support additional future student training.

 

“This program has motivated me to pursue a career path in conservation so I can help preserve and protect our rich biodiversity,” said Anatolia Siwat, a fourth year UNRE student.

 

Moses Kerry, director and founder of MENCERTC attributed the success of his training center to USAID support. “Only through partnerships like this one with USAID can we achieve our goals and bring much needed development into our communities” said Mr Kerry.