On the ground with Kiwa WISH+: Manus takes action for water, health, and forests

In Papua New Guinea, the project is working with Manus Island communities to implement Nature-based Solutions addressing challenges related to water, health, and ecosystem protection.

For the past two years, Kiwa WISH+ has been working alongside the communities of Pao, Londru, and Lohii to improve water quality, protect forests, and strengthen climate resilience.
In Pao, residents have identified a direct link between upstream land use and the quality of drinking water downstream. Waste management, sanitation, and erosion are now being addressed through concrete solutions and inclusive dialogue between clans.
In Londru, there is strong anticipation and growing enthusiasm for the start of interventions. In Lohii, one of the most vulnerable areas to sea level rise and coastal erosion, access to fresh water has become critical, and the lack of sanitation increases health risks. Here, Kiwa WISH+ is the only source of external support.

On the North Coast, conservation agreements (“deeds”) are being driven by visionary clan leaders.
“I want to protect my forest for future generations,” says Raphael Kuwe, chief of the Charmon clan.
“After several years of protection, I can now see many bird species, insects, and even the Admiralty cuscus behind my house,” says Felix Paniu, chief of the Chapwe Tolau clan.