Saving Cultural Identity
Part of the reason why PNG is losing its connection to nature is due to external influences such as religion, economics, technology and social aspects. At TCA we believe that at the core of environmental destruction is the loss of cultural identity to species and how natural resources are being undervalued. TCA aims to reconnect PNG people back to their culture and traditional practices, which are inline with sustainable resource management and biodiversity protection.
We will work with communities, partners, government and donors to ensure we are influencing change that is equal and inclusive and still respects and values of indigenous knowledge, customs and culture.
Component 1: Cultural Connection
Part of the reason why PNG is losing its connection to nature is due to external influences such as religion, economics, technology and social aspects. At TCA we believe that at the core of environmental destruction is the loss of cultural identity to species and how natural resources are being undervalued. TCA aims to bring PNG people back to their cultural connection to the earth and intrinsic values as they advance into the 21st century.
- Cultural singsing groups included in education programs, events and special meetings 100%
- Tok Pisin Radio Program including animal characters and songs composed by local people 100%
- Support provided to Elementary schools producing tok ples books 100%
- Leadership training programs that focus on desirable traits for strong leadership in PNG 100%
- Conflict resolution training for land mediators 100%
- Gender equity activities and inclusiveness incorporated into our everyday operations and training programs 100%
- Sales of locally produced bilums, grass skirts and carvings at TCA fundraising events 100%
Component 2: Research
Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 different language groups which means it is just as rich in its cultural value as it is in its biodiversity. TCA aims to advocate for the promotion and protection of PNG culture in order to value and protect its worth. We will do this by incorporating indigenous knowledge into our operations, research and recordings.
Previous Research
Research – Anthropological Survey
During the first year of its establishment, TCA worked in consultation with Divine Word University students and the late Nancy Sullivan to record hunting practices within the Wape Culture. This valuable work embedded the importance of local indigenous knowledge and built an organisational culture of respect towards local people and their traditional beliefs and practices.
Research – Orchid Survey
TCA formed a partnership with Canberra University from 2013-2018 to implement an Orchid survey to analyse the traditional knowledge of orchids, their value and potential use as a flagship species for conservation. Orchid surveys were conducted by Dr Jasmyn Lynch. The purpose of the research was to record the diversity, ecology, value and usage of orchids by local Indigenous people and to improve approaches to conservation through integration of scientific and indigenous knowledge into natural resource management planning.
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There are many valuable ways in which you can contribute to the Tenkile Conservation Alliance’s vision – which is, the people of PNG value and protect their natural resources, their community and their culture.
Click 'Contribute' button above to learn more.
Subscribe to our mailing list
There are many valuable ways in which you can contribute to the Tenkile Conservation Alliance’s vision – which is, the people of PNG value and protect their natural resources, their community and their culture.
Click 'Contribute' button below to learn more.
Our Partners
Tenkile Conservation Alliance is proudly supported by:
The content of this website does not reflect the views of the European Union or any other TCA partner.