Conciliation Resources Conducts Climate Change workshop in Chabai at the Northwestern coast of Bougainville.

L-R: Ephraim Sawa from ABG's Department of Independence Mission Implementation (DIMI), Ursula from Tulele Peisa, NCFR's Sister Lorraine Garasu, Conciliation Resources team with BWF's President Babra Tanne and VP Helen Siumana after the Workshop.

Conciliation Resources recently conducted a two days long climate change workshop from October 2nd - 3rd 2024 , at the Nazareth Centre of Rehabilitation (NCFR) in Chabai at the North Western Coast of Bougainville. This workshop was facilitated by a team from Conciliation Resources under the leadership of Abigail Blenkin. The workshop brought together CBO's ,FBO's and CSO's like the BWF (who is a core partner - a number of its affiliated groups also attended the workshop), NCFR, Tulele Peisa and the ABG - Department of Independence Mission Implementation together with the Office of the Missing Persons Bougainville.

The first day of the workshop was Information sharing form each organizations the day's focus was also on raising awareness about the specific effects of climate change on Bougainville’s environment and communities. There was also shared insights on how rising sea levels, erratic weather patterns, and increased natural disasters threaten our livelihoods and ecosystems.

Participants engaged in interactive sessions that highlighted local vulnerabilities, particularly in agriculture and fisheries, which are critical to our way of life. By sharing personal experiences, attendees illustrated the real-life impacts of climate change on their families and communities, fostering a sense of urgency and shared responsibility.

The second day shifted towards practical solutions. Participants were divided into groups to brainstorm and develop actionable plans tailored to their local contexts. Topics included sustainable farming practices, community-led conservation efforts, and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge in adapting to environmental changes.

A highlight of the day was a workshop on resilience building, where participants learned about innovative techniques to enhance their communities’ adaptability to climate change. This included the introduction of climate-smart agriculture, water management strategies, and disaster preparedness measures.

Throughout the workshop, there was a palpable sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Participants not only learned from the facilitators but also from each other, exchanging ideas and strategies that have worked in their respective communities. This collaborative spirit is essential for creating a unified response to the challenges posed by climate change.

Participants expressed their commitment to implementing the strategies discussed and fostering ongoing dialogue within their communities.

The Conciliation Resources workshop in Chabai was more than just a gathering; it was a vital step towards empowering communities to confront the realities of climate change. By equipping the participants with knowledge and tools, we are not only safeguarding our environment but also ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Stay tuned for more updates on our community initiatives and how you can get involved in the fight against climate change in Bougainville!