A new pathway through one of Papua New Guinea’s rich mangrove ecosystems is opening opportunities for people to experience nature, learn about conservation and renew their responsibility to care for God’s creation.
The Bautama Mangrove Educational Boardwalk was officially opened on July 29 through a partnership between the Central Papua Conference (CPC) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
The project brings together the church, traditional landowners, local communities, government agencies, conservation organisations and development partners in a shared effort to protect the country’s unique mangrove environment while promoting education, recreation and community engagement.
Speaking during the launch, CPC President Pastor Lonnel Winnie described mangroves as one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity.
“Mangroves are amongst God’s greatest gifts to humanity. They protect our coastlines from erosion, provide breeding grounds for fish and marine life, improve water quality, and help reduce the effects of climate change,” he said.
Pastor Winnie reminded attendees that caring for the environment is a shared responsibility.
“As caretakers of God’s creation, we have a sacred responsibility to preserve these natural treasures for future generations.”
He said the boardwalk would serve as an outdoor classroom where students, communities and visitors could learn directly from nature and develop a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship.
Representing TNC, Asia-Pacific Regional Managing Director Will McGoldrick described the project as years in the making and highlighted Papua New Guinea’s global importance for mangrove diversity.
“What we are about to see is a really special place. A mangrove forest is unique and incredibly important, and it is remarkable that it exists so close to Port Moresby,” he said.
The 27-hectare Bautama mangrove site provides important benefits, including supporting marine life, strengthening food security, protecting coastlines and storing carbon. Mr McGoldrick also acknowledged the late Manoa Wanaga for his contribution to the development of the project and encouraged schoolchildren to become future custodians of the environment.
The first phase of the planned three-kilometre boardwalk has been completed, while work on Phases Two and Three is underway.
The launch included the opening of a resource centre, the unveiling of Blue Carbon information signage, the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and a guided walk along the boardwalk.
As the project continues, the Bautama Mangrove Educational Boardwalk is expected to become a centre for conservation, environmental education and community engagement—inviting every visitor to walk through God’s creation and help protect it for generations to come.
