Country/Region: Papua New Guinea
Partner: Tenkile Conservation Alliance (TCA)
The Tenkile Conservation Alliance (TCA) works to protect the proposed Torricelli Mountain Range Conservation Area, a biodiversity hotspot in Papua New Guinea (PNG) threatened by logging and infrastructure development. This region is home to 50% of PNG’s bird species, 65% of its reptiles and amphibians, and 40% of its mammals, including critically endangered Tenkile and Weimang tree kangaroos.
Since 2005, TCA has mapped 93’000 hectares and proposed 143’000 hectares for official protection, helping flagship species recover under a hunting ban. Although government support has been limited to date, TCA is strongly supported by local clan leaders, landowners, and communities.
Building on a successful previous grant, this project will strengthen patrols, improve communication systems and update land-use agreements with 43 villages and 226 clan leaders. It will also establish plant nurseries and train staff in the use of new technologies through a tailor-made patrolling app.
