“People Powering Biodiversity” Global Inception Meeting - Unites global efforts for community-led conservation

Posted on December, 06 2024

The Global Inception Meeting for the project “Accelerating the Implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework through Community-Led Conservation”, also known as “People Powering Biodiversity” (PPB), was held in Ha Noi from November 25 - 29th, 2024.
This event marked the exciting beginning of a transformative three-year initiative. Hosted at WWF-Viet Nam’s office, the meeting brought together 30 key participants, including international, regional, and national WWF teams, to collaborate on advancing the PPB through community-led conservation efforts.

"This is more than just a meeting; it’s a unique chance to connect, share, and learn,” said Alice Ruhweza, Senior Director of Policy Influence and Engagement at WWF International. “When you’re face-to-face, you get to know each other deeply - how to talk, engage, and respect values. This creates a warmth and camaraderie that energises our collective work.” 

Participants from five countries including Tunisia, Viet Nam, Tanzania, The Republic of the Congo and Papua New Guinea, global and regional teams explored strategies to empower Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities, especially women and youth in biodiversity conservation through the revision of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans. The project aims to ensure these communities’ involvement and leadership with mechanisms for better access to funding through National Biodiversity Finance Plans. 

A key focus of the meeting was to align on ambitious outputs that would drive the project forward. Participants worked collaboratively to shape a global Theory of Change and a comprehensive Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning framework to ensure progress is measurable and impactful. They also developed a cohesive work plan that bridges national, regional, and global efforts, ensuring every layer of the project is interconnected and strategic. Advocacy and communications strategies were revisited to enhance the project’s influence on global biodiversity policies, while practical tools and guidelines were crafted to center community voices in conservation, placing people at the very heart of biodiversity action.

Reflecting on the meeting’s outcomes, Dr. Barbara Nakangu, Senior Program Manager at WWF International, highlighted the importance of the four shifts discussed. “We committed to centering communities in every step of the process, not just as stakeholders but as equal partners. This shift challenges us to be accountable to the local communities who lead conservation on the ground.”

The vibrant discussions were balanced with moments of connection and inspiration. “It’s an honor to have colleagues from around the world gathered here,” shared Nguyen Thanh Hai, PPB Project Manager at WWF-Viet Nam. “This week was about more than planning. It was about building a shared vision to protect our planet and empower our communities.”

The PPB Inception Meeting set the stage for groundbreaking work in inclusive conservation. By aligning on goals, strategies, and community-centered approaches, it showcased the potential for global teamwork to achieve meaningful, sustainable outcomes for biodiversity and the people at its heart.
“People Powering Biodiversity” Global Inception Meeting
© WWF
The vibrant discussions were balanced with moments of connection and inspiration.
© WWF
Participants worked collaboratively to shape a global Theory of Change.
© WWF