After a consultation by Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) in October, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Friday 03rd of December 2021, between the West New Britain Provincial Administrator, Mr Williamson Hosea and CCDA’s Acting Managing Director, Mr William Lakain.
The initial consultation between WNBPA and CCDA begun in 2016. The event was witnessed by WNB Provincial Management Team, Environment and Climate Change Unit and Officers from CCDA who travelled to Kimbe.
Mr Williamson upon receiving the CCDA delegation mentioned the efforts of the provincial administration especially its structure to create a Climate Change Unit. This unit will play a vital role in coordinating efforts within the Province through the Provincial Climate Change Committee (PCCC) and liaise with CCDA at the National level.
The signing of the MoU is a milestone achievement for the province as it sets precedents as the first province in the country to establish its PCCC.
CCDA acting Managing Director, Mr Lakain said the MoU is the key step forward for both parties to foster effective working relationship to address climate change issues within the province.
“I commend the Governor, the Provincial Administration and the people of WNB for their efforts towards implementing climate change measures in the province. This committee will also be a mechanism to support donor fundings from international development partners as well as the National Government to support the province in terms of green energy (geothermal) and other climate change related projects within the province.
The next step for the Provincial Executive Council of West New Province is to fully endorse the PCCC establishment and allocate budget to be sourced from within the Provincial Administration for PCCC activities.
The swearing in and the induction of the WNB PCCC members will be done early next year. The New Ireland Provincial Executive Council (PEC) has also in its decision 55/2021 approved the establishment of PCCC in the Province. The swearing in and MoU signing will be done once dates are set by the Provincial Administration of New Ireland Province.