Upper Tina Catchment Consultations: Charting a Way Forward.

From 8–12 December 2025, tribal leaders of the Upper Tina Catchment (UTC) gathered in a series of consultations aimed at strengthening collaboration, resolving longstanding issues, and advancing the establishment of Protected Areas (PAs) within the catchment. The purpose of these consultations is to provide awareness on the Protected Areas process to tribal leaders and representatives, and to hear their views on the future of conservation in the Upper Tina Catchment.

The consultations were held across two key communities. The Ngongoti Community hosted discussions on 8 and 10 December, while the Namoraoni Community welcomed leaders on 11 and 12 December.

Building Understanding Across the PA Process

Central to the discussions was the Protected Area (PA) Process, a structured pathway that guides tribes from initial awareness to the formal declaration of a protected area. It was acknowledged that tribes within the Upper Tina Catchment are at different stages of this process and therefore require tailored support and actions.

For tribes yet to begin the PA process, Many leaders highlighted the importance of first consulting their own tribal members. These internal discussions are necessary to build consensus on whether establishing a protected area aligns with the tribe’s aspirations and values. Once consensus is reached, tribal leaders may work with the Project Office and MECDM to understand and, if they wish, initiate the formal steps required under the Protected Areas Act, including any future public notice requirements.

For tribes that are more advanced in the PA process, attention has shifted to relationships beyond their own boundaries. Discussions emphasised the need to work with neighbouring tribes on boundary agreements, recognising that cooperation and mutual understanding are essential for long-term success.

Addressing Boundary and Leadership Disputes

The consultations also provided a space to openly discuss boundary and leadership disputes, particularly for those already well progressed in the process, discussions focused on boundary and leadership issues.

Have UTC Tribes organise themselves and agree on tribes that are to be placed in cluster groups. Once clusters are agreed upon, groups are documented as tribes, and tribal land boundaries are recorded. Tribal landowning groups with outstanding boundary disputes will be sidelined from clusters until they resolve their issues in a house of chiefs. Lastly, for those clusters that can agree on the tribal land boundaries, can arrange for boundary signing agreement consultations. [T1]

 In cases of leadership disputes, participants expressed their intention to continue dialogue on leadership and reconciliation. Once resolved, the PO will be engaged to organise leadership consultations and establish appropriate management committees.

However, it was recognised that some disputes may be too complex to resolve at the local level alone. In such cases, participants noted that support may be sought from the House of Chiefs or other appropriate customary and formal mechanisms.

Strengthening Governance and Ensuring Benefits

Beyond dispute resolution, leaders strongly supported the establishment of an Upper Tina Catchment Advisory Body. This body would comprise knowledgeable and qualified tribal leaders tasked with guiding the development of an overarching UTC Management Plan. The aim is to ensure that protected areas are not only environmentally sustainable, but also culturally appropriate and firmly grounded in the traditions, values, and customary practices of UTC tribes.

Leaders also highlighted the pressing economic needs faced by many communities in the catchment and stressed that, for conservation to be sustainable, it should be coupled with clear and realistic pathways to social and economic benefits. These options are still being explored together with government and partners.

Looking Ahead

The consultations concluded with a renewed sense of shared responsibility and commitment. While the PA process is recognised as a 12-step journey—from developing proposals and consulting leaders, through mapping boundaries, engaging government agencies, and ultimately achieving official declaration, Participation in the PA process remains voluntary, and each tribe will continue to move at its own pace, based on internal consensus and customary decision-making.

The Upper Tina Catchment Consultations of December 2025 laid a strong foundation for moving forward together, balancing conservation with culture, and ensuring that future generations inherit both healthy ecosystems and strong tribal identities.

[T1]Is it important to tell public about   these specific details. or the clusters formation progress.The article should be simple that PO initiated the engagements and what is the purpose of these engagements..

For more information, contact:
Communications Officer: Jeanine Gadepeta email: jeanine.gadepeta@tina-hydro.com  
Tina Hydropower development project  
+677 25133 
About Tina River Hydro Development Project (TRHDP)

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