The Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Papua New Guinea is one of the 122 countries working with local communities to combat the critical environmental problems around the world. SGP PNG  supports activities of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) focal areas: biodiversity conservation, climate change abatement, prevention of land degradation, reduction of the impact of Persistent Organic Pollutants and protection of international waters; and consistent with national priorities and government policies such as the Vision 2050, Development Strategic Plan 2010-2030 and Medium-Term Development Plan 2011-2015. 

Overarching objective of this grant facility is intended to build and replicate the successful experiences of vulnerable communities to respond to specific local environmental issues and support sustainable livelihood practices that will lead to global environmental benefits. SGP strongly encourages registered or other recognized national and local non-government organizations, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations and other institutions (i.e. research institutions, foundations) to apply for a (a) full grant of up to US$50,000 or (b) planning grant of up to US$ 5,000.

2011 Call for Proposals on Coastal and Marine Conservation

Call for project proposals for 2011 is open from 15 September 2011 and 14 October 2011 with a focus on coastal and marine conservation initiatives designed to address specific issues of special concern within the Milne Bay Area, Bismarck and Solomon Seas, and Southeast PNG including Gulf and Western Provinces. Concept papers including required attachments will be accepted on or before close of business on Friday, 15 October 2011. Mandatory application form must be used to be considered for funding. Click here to download the PNG SGP application form.

 

Papua New Guinea is in the process of developing its capacity to participate in peacekeeping operations internationally.

Fifteen Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel and five police officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary recently completed a United Nations Observers Course from the 21 March to 8 April 2011.

The training was provided by the Australian Defence Force as part of an overall bilateral defence training cooperation.

Instructional staff from the Australian Defence Force's Peace Operations Training Centre (POTC)   worked together with the staff of Defence Academy Lae to deliver an UN-accredited course that combines theory and practical confirmation. The course comprises of Core Pre-deployment Training Material (CPTM) and Specialised Training Material (STM).  The Core Pre-deployment Training Material covers a strategic overview of UN peacekeeping, the functioning of these missions, effective mandate implementation, as well as standards, values and safety practices required of all UN personnel.  Specialized Training Material covers investigation and verification of disarmament and demobilisation; mediation and negotiation; liaison and media relations; and UN standard operating procedures.

Speaking at the end of the training, the UN Resident Coordinator Mr. David MacLachlan-Karr said the UN welcomes the efforts being taken by Papua New Guinea to contribute to international peacekeeping operations, including the passing of enabling legislation and training of officers.

 

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The World Health Organization (WHO) in observing the day warned of a possible return to the days before antibiotics were developed unless global action is taken urgently to combat the growing problem of drug resistance.

 

WHO further cautioned that the misuse and irrational use of drugs are weakening the fight against diseases, such as tuberculosis and malaria, that should have been contained decades ago. At the same time, other age-old diseases are on the rise, with the possibility of no cure.

 

"Antimicrobial drug resistance is a complex problem, and it requires a comprehensive response among and between Member States across different sectors," said Dr Shin Young-soo, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific.