Exciting news! The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), in partnership with Rotary International and Rotary Club of Apia will launch the new Mangrove Marine Sanctuary initiative at the village of Nono’a, Saleimoa as a legacy for CHOGM!
Dr. Christopher Puttock, who has been leading Rotary’s global mangrove restoration efforts since United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP26 2021, is currently in Samoa. Alongside MNRE, he attended an official meeting at Nono’a, Saleimoa on the 27th of September to introduce the project to the community.
The village warmly welcomed the team with a traditional ‘ava ceremony, marking the beginning of this significant environmental initiative and fulfilling His Majesty’s vision of creating a lasting legacy for CHOGM.
This project builds on Rotary International’s commitment made during COP26, where Rotary co-hosted a round table on mangroves with the Secretary General of the Commonwealth, 10 Commonwealth Environment Ministers, and Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta. Rotary pledged to restore mangroves in 10 countries, and since then, over 30 projects have been initiated in 26 countries, including 15 Commonwealth nations.
Accordingly, this aligns well to support Samoa’s priority to sustainably manage mangroves and other marine ecosystems through restoration efforts.
HM King Charles III has taken a keen interest in these efforts and specifically requested the establishment of a new mangrove project in Samoa. The chosen pilot site at Nono’a, Saleimoa, was selected for its unique biodiversity and the community’s dedication to environmental preservation.The new initiative is the start of a multi-year programme intended to be expanded to multiple locations across Samoa.
Upcoming Key activities prior to CHOGM;
Community awareness campaigns.
Mangrove cleanup and seedling planting events.
Official launch of the Mangrove Marine Sanctuary initiative during CHOGM in October.
This project showcases the power of partnerships and highlights the importance of protecting our environment. Stay tuned as we work together to create a positive legacy for Samoa’s coastal landscapes and future generations!