On the 27th-29th of January, Kiribati Marine Spatial Planning Coordinating Committee (KMSPCC) conducted a three-day workshop focused on advancing marine spatial planning efforts for the Phoenix Islands.

The workshop was facilitated by Technical Advisor, Ms Alison Green and provided a platform to discuss and draft proposed zoning frameworks, explore zone development options, and design practical guidelines to support zoning and the development of Special Unique Marine Areas (SUMAs) within the Phoenix islands.

These discussions are a key step toward strengthening sustainable ocean management, balancing conservation priorities with responsible use, and ensuring the long-term protection of one of Kiribati’s most globally significant marine ecosystems.

The Committee also acknowledges, with sincere appreciation, the ongoing support of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), whose continued partnership has been instrumental in making this workshop possible and in supporting Kiribati’s marine spatial planning initiatives.