Beach Clean Up in North Sulawesi: A United Effort for a Cleaner Future

In a significant stride towards addressing the ever-looming threat of marine pollution, the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI-CFF) organized a beach clean-up event as part of the Coral Triangle Day 2024 celebrations. This initiative saw the community come together to clean up the beaches of North Sulawesi, demonstrating their commitment to preserving the region's invaluable marine ecosystem.

The beach clean-up commenced at Karang Ria Beach in Manado on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, with notable attendees including Dr. Frank Keith Griffin, Executive Director of the CTI-CFF Regional Secretariat, and the Mayor of Manado, Andrei Angouw. Both leaders actively participated in the clean-up efforts, which lasted for approximately one hour. Their involvement underscored the importance of leadership in environmental conservation efforts and inspired the local community to join the cause.

On Friday, June 7, 2024, the clean-up activities expanded, taking place simultaneously across 13 districts and cities along the North Sulawesi coastline. The CTI-CFF Regional Secretariat teams were particularly active in two key locations: Bulo Village in Minahasa Regency and Palaes Village in North Minahasa Regency.

Bulo Village, known for its picturesque beach stretching around 1 kilometer, frequently faces issues with litter washed ashore by tidal movements. CTI-CFF's Deputy Executive Director for Program Services, Christovel R.S. Rotinsulu, along with other dedicated staff members and about 100 local government officials and community members, worked tirelessly to clean the beach. The team, including Technical Program Manager Mr. Corzzierrah Posala, Finance Assistant Manager Mr. Dave Senewe, USAID-SCT Program Manager Mr. Anjum Islam, Coral Fellow Ms. Rena, and Operations Team members Ms. Ingrid Kandolia and Mr. Leo Bati, ensured the beach was cleared of debris, contributing significantly to its preservation.

At the same time, another group from the CTI-CFF Regional Secretariat participated in a mangrove planting event in the Palaes Mangrove Park on the other side of the island. This event, organized in collaboration with the North Minahasa Regency Government and participants from the United Cities and Local Governments for Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC) meeting, highlighted the importance of mangrove ecosystems. 

The Palaes community enthusiastically supported the event. Children performed the traditional Ma’engket dance, while local women prepared a delightful spread of grilled fish and other refreshments. The well-preserved mangrove forest stands as a testament to the community's efforts, bringing both environmental and economic benefits through sustainable tourism and coastal protection.

Representing the CTI-CFF at Palaes were Dr. Frank Keith Griffin, DED for Corporate Services Mr. Hanung Cahyono, Finance and Operation Manager Mrs. Reita Kalalo, Monitoring and Evaluation Manager Mr. Agostinho Andy Irmawan, Executive Assistant Ms. Maria Mawati, USAID-SCT Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Specialist Mrs. Stephanie Mapaliey, and Communications and Information team members Mrs. Dewi Satriani, Mr. Solomon Sundah, and Mr. Fritzgerald Wenur. Operations team members Mr. Arther and Mr. Endro were also present. Dr. Griffin took part in a mangrove tour, one of the key attractions of the area, underscoring the region's ecological and touristic value.

The Coral Triangle Day 2024 beach clean-up events show the power of community action and collaboration in tackling environmental challenges. By bringing together local residents, government officials, and international representatives, these initiatives not only enhance the cleanliness of our beaches but also promote a culture of environmental stewardship. As we continue to face the global issue of marine pollution, such united efforts are crucial in safeguarding our oceans for future generations. 

Let’s continue to work together for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Coral Triangle!