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From April 21-28, 2026, I visited the Kanashen Amerindian Protected Area to support Phase Three of the KAPA Management Plan consultations. This phase focused on discussions surrounding management values, goals and targets, threat identification and prioritisation, governance, management actions, and funding priorities within the protected area. 

Throughout the consultations, community members shared valuable perspectives on what they value most about KAPA and what they would like to see protected and strengthened moving forward. Discussions explored concerns surrounding natural resource pressures, transportation and access, governance support, and opportunities for stronger environmental awareness and livelihood development within the community.

Supporting Community Priorities and Conservation Planning

One of my main roles during the visit was facilitating the Funding and Project Prioritisation session to better understand the community’s priorities for PAT support initiatives this year. Community members identified several important areas they would like to see supported, including the erection of signboards within the protected area, environmental awareness activities, livestock and livelihood projects such as chickens and pigs, and continued support for ranger outposts and conservation operations beyond regular patrols and monitoring. 

These discussions also explored how different partner projects and initiatives could complement one another while avoiding duplication of activities, helping to strengthen coordination and long-term impact within the community. 

Supporting Community Infrastructure and Operations 

During the trip, I also conducted the handover of the community’s Starlink system and related equipment, including demonstrating how the system should be properly used and maintained to support long-term operation within the community. The Starlink equipment was procured under Grant 001-2025 and implemented by the Protected Areas Commission (PAC). I also checked on the boat procured for the community and provided updates regarding the second boat currently being supported. 

Left: Starlink satellite antenna set up in Masakenari, Right: Boat inspection and sign installation.

Preparing for Conservation Conversations 

Another important part of the visit involved supporting preparations for Kanashen’s participation in our recent “Conservation Conversations” initiative. With support from the PAT office, I worked alongside village leaders as we developed and practised the community’s presentation ahead of the event. 

This became one of the most meaningful parts of the trip for me because it deepened my understanding of Wai Wai history and reflected the strong pride the community holds in its culture and conservation work within KAPA. It was a privilege to support the community as they prepared to share their story and experiences.

Supporting Ongoing Community Development 

During the visit, I also supported community members in the development of their curriculum vitae as part of the upcoming support under the French Funded ProNature Grant. I briefed community members on the progress of the grant and conducted the ceremonial cheque handover with the community. I additionally supported the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) assessment conducted within the community, contributing to broader discussions surrounding protected area management and conservation effectiveness.

Beyond the consultations and meetings, the trip was personally meaningful to me. There is a calmness in Kanashen that is difficult to describe unless you have experienced it yourself. The warmth, openness, and kindness of the Wai Wai people always leave a lasting impression on me, and every visit continues to make KAPA feel like a home away from home.