In 1995, Island Conservation Initiatives (ICI) in collaboration with the Foundation of the Peoples of the South Pacific (FSP) Vanuatu developed the Natangura Carving Project. The Projects main objective is to train underprivileged groups how to carve from natangura seeds not only as an economic incentive, but as a means for preserving the specific species of the palm seed that is used (Metroxylon warburgii).
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Throughout the islands of Vanuatu the natangura palm is used primarily
for its leaves as thatching for traditional housing. Often times the thatch is prepared and sold. Many parts of this palm are valued by the Ni-Vanuatu and how these are utilized vary from one island to another. However, since the onset of the Natangura Carving Project, for the first time in |
history the excess seeds are being utilized for generating income. Through this project not only have we been able to provide training in a skill that equips Vanuatu's underprivileged groups to generate an income for themselves, we have also instilled within our trainees an awareness and understanding on the importance of conservation and sustainable management of their own natural resources.
The Natangura project and ICI is managed by a local Ni-Vanuatu woman and operates with a core staff of two carvers, a master carver, a conservation officer and two sales personnel. Before 1998, natangura jewelry and carvings were unheard of in Vanuatu, but today natangura carvings are sold in most local handicraft stores all of which are produced by those who have been trained under the carving project. Because ICI also creates its own line of natangura jewelry, all products made by ICI are exclusively marketed overseas, within the international airport and airline in order to enable our trainees to have a greater share of the domestic market so as not to create competition for them.