KOROR, Palau — Women leaders from Kayangel and Koror came together in a powerful three-day exchange to address one of Palau’s growing environmental concerns: the impact of invasive species. Held from September 11 to 13, the event was part of the INSPIRE Project, a regional initiative aimed at building ecosystem resilience through community-led efforts.
The exchange brought together over 50 participants, including women from the Ipang Seineng Era Oreor (Koror) and the Kayangel Seinendang Association. Through field visits, hands-on sessions, and cultural sharing, the women explored the impacts of invasive species on taro patches, local crops, and biodiversity.
During the Mesei (taro patch) tours, participants witnessed firsthand the effects of saltwater intrusion, climate change, and crop damage caused by invasive species such as rats, vines, and beetles. The field visit to Ngeriungs showcased successful efforts by Kayangel to restore native plants, resulting in healthier vegetation and increased sightings of species like the Micronesian Megapode and the Palau coconut crab. Structured dialogues allowed women from both islands to share how they manage pests and diseases affecting their farms. Their strategies ranged from soap-based pest control to community collaboration with local organizations like the Palau Conservation Society (PCS) and the Bureau of Environment.
The exchange was further supported by the NCD Funding Initiative project Wellness for Nature: Linking Conservation to Health, which promotes physical and mental well-being through nature-based wellness activities. The initiative highlights the deep connection between health and the environment by engaging women’s groups in conservation-focused efforts that nurture both ecological and community resilience. By strengthening partnerships and fostering local leadership, the project deepens community engagement in environmental stewardship.
In addition, IP&E Palau, as a proud Corporate Partner for Conservation (CPC), supported this effort as part of its commitment to conservation and environmental awareness initiatives in Palau. This collaboration underscores IP&E’s role as a dedicated CPC, promoting shared values of environmental stewardship and community engagement. Through its strategic partnership, IP&E is contributing to biodiversity protection, sustainable development, and climate resilience for present and future generations.
The event concluded with a community gathering attended by the PCS Executive Director, Kayangel State Governor, and community leaders. Keynote speakers highlighted the importance of women’s leadership, traditional knowledge, and long-term partnerships in invasive species management. “This exchange shows that women are at the heart of community resilience,” said one participant. “By learning from each other, we are building stronger, more sustainable solutions for Palau.”
The INSPIRE Project in Palau is led by the Palau Conservation Society in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment, the Kayangel and Koror State Governments, and funded by the Kiwa Initiative through BirdLife International.
For more information, visit: www.pacificbiosecurity.org/inspire-palau
For updates on upcoming events, or interested in becoming a PCS member, visit:
🌐 www.palauconservation.org
📧 Email: admin@palauconservation.org