International Development Meets Conservation: Managing Invasive Species in the Pacific
In an ambitious move to address climate change adaptation, New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) is providing significant support to address invasive species management across the Pacific. Kirsty Burnett and Dr Greg Sherley have been instrumental in scoping and designing initiative, including a comprehensive plan for the Managing Invasive Species for Climate Change Adaptation Programme (MISCCAP). This programme is a testament to international development efforts aimed at protecting the unique ecosystems and safeguarding the rich biodiversity of the Pacific Islands.
What We Did
Kirsty and Greg carefully crafted work programmes tailored for each implementing partner, which included a New Zealand government’s Department of Conservation, Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research, and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environmental Programme (SPREP) in Samoa. Each programme set out details on outputs, activities, deliverables, and budget allocations to ensure seamless execution. By integrating these details into MFAT’s standard reporting format, they ensured that monitoring requirements were clear to all responsible parties.
Drafting robust Terms of Reference for new positions and also for the overarching steering committee, Kirsty and Greg defined the roles and responsibilities of each partner, enhancing the governance system’s effectiveness. This groundwork was crucial in maintaining clarity and ensuring that all partners felt a sense of ownership over the programme.
How We Did It
Utilising the approved Activity Design Document, Kirsty and Greg prepared drafts implementation plans that were collaboratively developed with the three partners through workshops, both remotely and in person. This participatory approach facilitated a strong understanding and commitment among partners. Workplans were closely linked to budgets, payment schedules, and governance structures, ensuring a cohesive operational framework.
Co-funding from MFAT supports the Pacific Regional Invasive Species Management Support Service (PRISMSS), which coordinates efforts across the region. This collaboration is underpinned by a Declaration of Intent, promoting synergy and reducing duplication of effort and enhancing services provided to Pacific Islands.
Benefits
MFAT benefitted from streamlined contracting processes and improved accountability through a comprehensive set of documents. Implementing partners gained clarity on their roles within the larger framework, supported by the governance system designed by Kirsty and Greg.
Feedback from SPREP
"Kirsty and Greg have effectively navigated the complexities of engaging multiple agencies and cross-cutting issues across the Pacific. Their work has resulted in robust processes, work plans, budgets, and governance structures that have enabled PRISMSS to function effectively," said David Moverley, Invasive Species Adviser at SPREP.
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