Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Impacts Held in Tarawa, Kiribati

March 2025 – A crucial roundtable discussion on the impacts of climate change was held last week at the Kiritimati Fish Limited boardroom in Ambo, Tarawa. The meeting, aimed at addressing key environmental challenges facing Kiribati, brought together a diverse group of attendees, including government officials, development partners, donors, island mayors and their clerks, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

The open, informal discussion provided a platform for free dialogue on pressing issues surrounding climate change. Participants discussed a range of critical topics, including the challenges Kiribati is facing due to the effects of climate change, potential solutions, and the role of international counterparts in assisting the nation.

Three key questions dominated the agenda of the meeting:

1. What are the specific climate change issues that Kiribati will face?

2. How can these issues be addressed effectively?

3. How can international partners help in finding solutions?

The roundtable highlighted the urgency of climate change in Kiribati, with many island representatives stressing the collective responsibility to mitigate its effects. The discussions emphasized that the country has increasingly attracted the attention of international researchers, underscoring Kiribati's vulnerability and the importance of ongoing global collaboration.

A key theme in the dialogue was the current state of foreign aid, particularly with regard to water and sanitation projects on several islands, including Beru, Nikunau, and North Tarawa.

While these projects are ongoing, concerns were raised about their sustainability, with many fearing that they may not provide long-term solutions without continuous follow-ups.

Participants acknowledged that donors and development partners play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges, but the lack of follow-up on some projects remains a significant concern.

As frontline representatives for spreading public awareness, those present at the roundtable were united in their commitment to tackling climate change and ensuring that solutions are both sustainable and effective.

This informal meeting highlighted the shared responsibility among island leaders, NGOs, and international donors to work together in reducing the impacts of climate change, developing practical solutions, and fostering stronger communication and collaboration between all parties involved.