Thursday, 18th December, 2025
Papua New Guinea has signed a major climate funding agreement worth USD 63.4 million (about K259.8 million) to support forest protection and community livelihoods.
The agreement was signed between the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Results-Based Payment programme. The funding rewards Papua New Guinea for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by protecting its forests between 2014 and 2016.
The funding was approved earlier this year by the GCF Board during its meeting at APEC Haus in Port Moresby. Under the agreement, FAO will act as the accredited entity, responsible for managing and releasing the funds in line with GCF rules, while CCDA will provide overall leadership and direction.
According to the REDD+ Benefit Sharing Guidelines (2023), 60 per cent of the funding will support community livelihoods, particularly for people living in forest areas.
CCDA Acting Managing Director Ms Debra Sungi said the funding is a major achievement for the country and reflects the collective effort to protect Papua New Guinea’s forests.
“Papua New Guinea is privileged to receive this landmark funding of USD 63.4 million for protecting our forests and reducing emissions. It is a testament to the collective efforts of government agencies, partners like FAO, and local communities who continue to conserve our natural resources. Now that the agreement has been signed after a lengthy negotiation process, implementation must begin without delay so our people and the country as a whole can benefit,” Ms Sungi said.
FAO Head of Office in Papua New Guinea Dr Kachen Wongsathapornchai said the payment recognises real achievements, not promises.
“This Results-Based Payment recognition of Papua New Guinea’s proven success in reducing emissions through forest protection. FAO is honoured to support the Government, through CCDA, to turn this achievement into lasting benefits for communities, livelihoods and globally important forests, while ensuring transparency, accountability and national ownership at every step,” Dr Wongsathapornchai said. The funding will support programmes under PNG’s National REDD+ Strategy and the Enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution, helping the country address climate change while improving local livelihoods.
ENDS