Community Development Initiatives Foundation

CDI recognises the importance of partnering and networking with other NGOs to address the social development needs of the communities it works with. The increasing number of NGOs in PNG and around the world offers experience and expertise not available within CDI itself.

CDI’s most significant partnership has evolved from Chevron Niugini’s collaboration with the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF), known as the Kikori Integrated Conservation and Development Project (KICDP).

The KICDP is now in its third three-year phase of implementation, continuing to promote conservation and biodiversity protection amongst the project area communities. Personnel from WWF contributed valuable input into the development of CDI. WWF’s field staff now work from the CDI Foundation’s training centres and work together with CDI staff in the same communities, integrating conservation efforts with social development initiatives.

CDI has also received useful guidance in its development from the Rössing Foundation of Namibia. This relationship has evolved into an ongoing partnership, involving exchange visits and sharing personnel for program evaluations and training.

Rössing Foundation staff with CDI's Rodney Kameata and Sisa Kini in Namibia

UPAP's Dr. Don Pedersen and PA trainee Kelly Keller

CDI is now developing a new partnership with the University of Utah for its community health initiatives. The University’s Department of Family & Preventive Medicine and Utah Physician Assistant Program (UPAP) provide regular visits from faculty and students, providing invaluable input on the health needs of the project area and assisting in the development of the skill levels of healthcare providers.