Solomon Islands: Three protected area proposals progressing on Kolombangara Island with support from Kiwa WISH+
In 2026, the Kiwa WISH+ project continues to support Pacific Island communities in strengthening climate change adaptation through nature-based solutions. As part of the Kiwa Initiative, the project contributes to building the resilience of ecosystems and livelihoods by conserving critical landscapes and watersheds, strengthening local governance, and promoting sustainable natural resource management.
In the Solomon Islands, Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Solomon Islands is supporting the development of three protected area proposals on Kolombangara Island, in close collaboration with national partners and local communities.
The three initiatives are progressing at different stages of the approval process:
- Epanga–Korapa–Tusa, the most advanced proposal, has completed the objection process and has been resubmitted to the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) for government endorsement. Its official declaration is expected later this year.
- Kiuwai has completed verification activities and will soon enter the publicnotification phase, opening a 30-day consultation period before final gazettal.
- Igoana, the most recently submitted proposal, has received provincial endorsement and management plan approval and is now under review by MECDM.
The project also highlights the key role played by the Kolombangara Island Biodiversity Conservation Association (KIBCA), whose continued on-the-ground engagement and close collaboration with communities have been essential in advancing these initiatives.
