Preserving and sharing Indigenous Knowledge helps foster environmental stewardship and community resilience. In New Ireland Province, in Papua New Guinea, the Climate Resilient Islands (CRI) team is implementing the Indigenous Knowledge Leadership Programme (IKLP). This programme is designed to empower traditional knowledge to best inform climate resilience. The approach provides a safe space for intergenerational work in these communities which is a key outcome to the CRI program.

Community Maimai’s (Chiefs) in New Ireland have expressed concerns about the movement away from traditional practices, and they are eager for the IKLP to help revitalize these cultural frameworks. While some communities remain deeply rooted in their traditional environmental practices, others find themselves influenced by Western ideologies. This shift presents a challenge, especially for the youth who can bridge these perspectives.

One pathway forward to strengthening cultural knowledge, identified by communities, was the restoration of the Hausboi and Hauskuk systems. The Hausboi system, the first form of governance in New Ireland communities. It is a space for men in the community to come together and share traditions and discuss community matters. Mirroring this structure are the Hauskuk; women who gather not just to prepare meals but also to create a space designed to shared knowledge between different generations.

Women from the IKLP programme work together to weave a mat

This environment fosters the transmission of traditional skills, including weaving, environmental management, cooking, handicrafts, and water management. Young girls are welcomed into this matrilineal community as soon as they can walk and talk, ensuring the continuity of their heritage. While decisions are made as part of the Hausboi system, nothing is officially passed without the approval of the Hauskuk, who will have final say on anything impacting the community.

One CRI team member reflected, ‘Through my own personal experiences of living in New Ireland and speaking with these communities I can see how much Indigenous Knowledge is alive.’ The team observed a collective desire to preserve local spiritual and environmental knowledge.

Following the IKLP, many communities are eager to strengthen both the Hausboi and Hauskuk systems, recognizing the importance of these traditions and seeking to restore community engagement in local customs. Participants express a strong desire for improved collaboration between the two systems, believing that a united approach will enhance local governance and decision-making.

Women from the IKLP programme present a hand woven mat

Positive feedback has emerged from community Maimai’s and participants who support Indigenous Knowledge initiatives, like IKLP. Both young and old are eager to share their perspectives and make changes that will help them manage their unique climate problems.

CRI is committed to elevating marginalised voices and ensure equitable community dialogue. The Hauskuk system plays a crucial role in local governance, and the programme aims to enhance women’s influence in local decision-making processes.

The Climate Resilient Islands programme is supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and implemented by Live & Learn Environmental Education in Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu and the Solomon Islands.