THE “COMMUNITY-LED CLIMATE ADAPTATION ISLAND RESILIENCE (CCAIR)” PROGRAM LAUNCH EVENT

It was an exciting day on Friday 7th June 2024 morning when we all gathered at the New Zealand High Commission premises to witness the official launching of the “COMMUNITY-LED CLIMATE ADAPTATION ISLAND RESILIENCE (CCAIR)” program.

Key note speaker Ms. Maria Trologo, Head of Programs from ChildFund New Zealand

The CCAIR Program is an innovative initiative aimed at addressing the pressing issues of climate change and enhancing resilience, improve institutional capability and evidence-based decision making, and leverage investment to achieve greater climate impact on two selected islands which are: Makin (Kiebu islet) and Abaiang (Ribono & Nuotaea islets). This project is a partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and ChildFund to be implemented in Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Sri Lanka.

Joining us on that momentous event were our esteemed guests from Abaiang Island: Acting Mayor Ms. Kiakia Kautuntarawa, Acting Clerk Ms. Raerae Taie, Councilor Mr. Ekeuea from Ribono islet, and Councilor Mr. Boata Iotebwa from Nuotaea islet. From Makin Island, we had the Vice Mayor Mr. Teuea Mwakaata, Councilor Mr. Toakau Banikatang and Clerk Ms. Rianna Beniamina. Additionally, representatives from the Government and Project key stakeholders also attended – Australian High Commission, New Zealand High Commission, Ministry of Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy, Ministry of Women, Youth, Sports and Social Affairs, Ministry of Health, Office of the President, Volunteer Service Abroad, UNICEF, Greenliving, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Ministry of Employment and Human Resources, Kiribati Island Local Government Association, Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs and Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agriculture.

ChildFund New Zealand CEO Ms. Josie Pagani gave her speech during the event.

The event started with the garlanding dance performed by Mataburo traditional dancers followed by a welcoming speech by the New Zealand High Commissioner, Mr. Andre Van Der Walt, and a keynote address by the ChildFund NZ Head of Programs, Ms. Maria Trogolo. Afterwards, the ChildFund NZ CEO, Ms. Josie Pagani, delivered a speech and the ceremony concluded with some closing remarks from the ChildFund Kiribati Country Director, Ms. Teima K. Onorio.

A heartfelt gratitude to the New Zealand High Commission for hosting this significant event and to all who have attended and witnessed the official launching of the CCAIR program. Your support and participation are invaluable as we embark on this crucial journey towards a more sustainable and resilient world.

Enjoy some highlight photos from the launch

Enjoy some highlights of the CCAIR launch event