LocationsThe plans provide a roadmap for sustainable marine resource use, biodiversity protection, and long-term community development in Tarobi, Lolobau, Ewase, and Makasili.
Four communities in Kimbe Bay launch Marine Management and Business Plans
June 20, 2025
Community members in Tarobi celebrating the launch of their plan.
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Seru Kepa
UNDP, in partnership with CEPA, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and the West New Britain Provincial Government, have successfully launched Marine Management and Business Plans for four Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs) in Kimbe Bay, West New Britain Province. The launch of the plans took place from 15–20 June 2025 during UNDP's and CEPA's joint mission to the proivnce.
The milestone was reached as part of the Sustainable Financing of Papua New Guinea’s Protected Area Network project, which is generously funded by the Global Environment Facility. The project aims to close the funding gap for protected areas in Papua New Guinea by strengthening the livelihoods of local landowners and improving their management.
The plans were developed with the support of the GEF-funded 'Sustainable Financing of PNG's Protected Area Network' project.
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Seru Kepa
The four LMMA communities involved — Tarobi, Lolobau, Ewase, and Makasili — led the efforts to develop the Management and Business Plans. The plans provide a clear roadmap for sustainable marine resource use, biodiversity protection, and long-term development for the communities.
“This plan is your roadmap for sustainability. It will guide your conservation efforts, support livelihoods, and protect biodiversity for years to come,” said Ms. Agetha Nanape, UNDP Project Manager, during her speech at the launching of the plan in Tarobi.
UNDP Project Manager, Agetha Nanape, addressing the Tarobi community during the launching ceremony.
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Seru Kepa
“This is more than a document — it’s a commitment to our environment and future. We will continue to support this important initiative,” added the Deputy Provincial Administrator of West New Britain, Mr. John Sitapai.
“As a landowner, I thank UNDP, WCS, CEPA, and the Provincial Government. This plan will help us protect our land and sea, and leave something meaningful for our children,” concluded Mr. George Meinharthd-Litom, the LMMA Manager from Tarobi.
The Deputy Provincial Administrator of West New Britain Province, Mr. John Sitapai, attended the launching ceremony in Tarobi.
UNDP Papua New Guinea/Seru Kepa
The launch of the plans highlights the growing momentum for community-led conservation in Kimbe Bay—linking environmental protection with sustainable livelihoods for local people.
“This launch shows the power of community-led conservation. CEPA is proud to support local efforts that align national goals with grassroots action,” summarized the Manager of CEPA's Marine Protected Areas Branch, Mr. Bernard Suruman.