Western Province moves to strengthen climate action

CCDA and Western Provincial administration staff in Daru recently (NBC News)

Western Province is taking steps to strengthen its response to climate change following a consultation meeting in Daru between the Climate Change and Development Authority [CCDA], the provincial administration, and key stakeholders.

Acting CCDA Managing Director Debra Sungi said the meeting aimed to set up a Provincial Climate Change Committee, which will align with local development plans and CCDA’s national strategy.

She said the initiative is part of CCDA’s plan to establish similar committees in all 22 provinces, giving provinces more control in addressing climate impacts and promoting sustainable development.

Provincial Administrator Robert Alphonse Kaiyun welcomed the move and said the province looks forward to working with CCDA to tackle climate-related challenges.

Fishermen throwing their lines in waters slowly reclaiming land is a clear sign of climate change’s impact on the coast of Daru Island in Western Province (NBC News)

An MOU will soon be prepared and presented to the Provincial Executive Council to formalize the establishment of the committee.

"We hope to see very effective coordination and more deliveries in terms of projects that address climate change adaptation and mitigation actions through our nationally determined contributions and national adaptation plan," Sungi said.