A successful Traditional Knowledge Workshop was held with the Kiribati Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) Coordinating Committee on Thursday, 9th July 2026.

The workshop strengthened understanding of the important relationship between Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), customary marine tenure systems, and the Marine Spatial Planning process. Discussions focused on identifying practical ways in which traditional marine management practices and local knowledge can inform and strengthen modern ocean planning and conservation efforts in Kiribati.

Additionally, through the KMSPCC and representatives from the Culture and Museum Division (CMD-MCIA) of the Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs (MCIA) co-facilitated the session alongside representatives from the Cab-SMART Multi-Country Activity 2 team from Earth Science New Zealand (ESNZ) focusing on traditional knowledge. The workshop also provided an opportunity to raise awareness of Te Umwanibong Act 2022 and the national research process, helping to build a shared understanding among committee members.

The meeting concluded with valuable discussions on challenges, opportunities, and pathways for integrating and strengthening Traditional Knowledge within the MSP process. These conversations will help guide future efforts toward more sustainable and culturally informed ocean management in Kiribati.

We sincerely acknowledge New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and ESNZ for supporting this important initiative. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with our committee members to advance a more inclusive Marine Spatial Planning process for Kiribati's marine resources, ensuring that decisions are informed by and grounded in traditional knowledge for the benefit of present and future generations.