Return to PNG – Chapter 1
Such a joyous and emotional trip back to Papua New Guinea in June! If you’re on Facebook, you may have seen a few posts here and there. However, there is so much to share that it has been decided to break up the stories a little. I’m actually going to start out with an outreach and some information about a non-profit facility for marine research and education.
Mahonia Na Dari, MND, which translates to “Guardians of the Sea” in the local language, is just a 5-minute walk from the famous and beautiful Walindi Plantation Resort in Kimbe Bay, West New Britain. As a matter of fact, it was my first trip to PNG way back in 1992!
Mahonia Na Dari started in 1997, through co-operative efforts between The Nature Conservancy, the European Union Islands Regional Environmental Program and Walindi Plantation Resort. Mahonia Na Dari operates from the Walindi Nature Centre. The organization was registered as an independent non-government organization in November 1998, with its own Board of Directors. It is about the research for the marine and terrestrial environments and archaeology but most important is the connection with the community.
Max and Cecilie Benjamin began this effort, and although Max passed away in 2020, the legacy lives on with Cecilie’s hard work. In addition, their son Cheyne and wife, Ema, continue by bringing some stellar individuals to continue the dynamics of MND and the MEEP program. So, what the heck is MEEP? Marine Environment Education Program. This is a fabulous program that back in 2012, I did a story for Dive Alert Magazine. MND progressed through financial assistance and recognition. It was a joyous day to spend in the classroom lecture and out in the field. MEEP creates awareness and inspiration for local action to protect reefs, waterways, turtle nesting, sea grass beds, cultural sites and mangrove areas.
Education is everything! We loved the presentation for the Primary School students. The presentations are from two impressive people:Jamil Wilson, Research Lead/Educator, and Zena Good, Financial Officer. They both have plenty of experience and education. Jamil originates from Ohio! His talents stand out with a major in biology along with a Fulbright and National Geographic Research and Our World Underwater Rolex Award. Zena is from Papua New Guinea where she attended the University of PNG, majoring in biology and working on business education. Add in the wonderful teachers for students age 14 – 16 at the Max Benjamin – Walindi Primary School, Claudette Lupalrea, along with Somei Jonda, and you generate the interest, along with some giggles from the students.
That happened immediately after the students finished their program, lunch, and headed to the field location to plant young mangroves. Mangroves are vital, not only in Kimbe Bay, but around the country of Papua New Guinea and the world. In fact, July 25th is World Mangrove Day!!! They are an essential part of a sustainable environment that provides important resources to the village communities. The following photos are from our afternoon planting session and
TAKEN BY JAMIL WILSON
If the end of this first chapter of the Return to PNG, put a smile on your face like it did for me and George – then help out, even a small amount, by donating to this wonderful and significant program!!!
