MIMRA Awards $25,000 PAN Fund Grant to Bokanbotin Marine Protected Area for Coastal Protection

Grant Bolsters Coastal Protection in Majuro Atoll

The Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority (MIMRA) has awarded a $25,000 PAN Fund grant to the Bokanbotin marine protected area (MPA) in Majuro Atoll. The grant, officially activated earlier in February 2026 during a signing ceremony with the MPA owners, is earmarked for critical coastal protection efforts aimed at combating erosion within the protected area.

MIMRA stated that the approved project 'will focus on coastal protection efforts to address erosion within their protected area — a growing climate challenge that directly impacts livelihoods, homes, and ecosystems.' This initiative is also intended to serve as a pilot project, providing valuable insights to inform future PAN-funded coastal protection efforts across other Reimaanlok sites in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI).

MIMRA and the PAN Fund's Role in Conservation

The Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority (MIMRA) plays a pivotal role in the management and sustainable use of the nation's marine resources. The grant was facilitated through MIMRA's Protected Areas Network (PAN) office, highlighting the authority's commitment to supporting local conservation initiatives.

The PAN Fund serves as a financial mechanism to channel support towards protected areas, aiding in their management and sustainable development. The Bokanbotin MPA is now the seventh Reimaanlok site to benefit from PAN funding. MIMRA's signature coastal management program, Reimaanlok, which translates to 'looking to the future,' actively involves local communities in conservation management through an eight-step process.

The Significance of Bokanbotin Marine Protected Area

Located in Majuro Atoll, the Bokanbotin marine protected area is associated with the Island Getaway resort, which is managed by Emma Kabul-Tibon and Sherwood Tibon. The island is described as a private sanctuary known for its vibrant marine life, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The eco-resort operates with a focus on sustainable tourism, aiming to preserve the environment and contribute to the local community. The waters around Bokanbotin are home to diverse marine species, including baby blacktip reef sharks and giant clams.

Broader Context of Marine Conservation in the Marshall Islands

This grant underscores the Marshall Islands' broader commitment to marine conservation. The nation has been actively working to protect its invaluable marine ecosystems, recently establishing its first national marine sanctuary in January 2025. This sanctuary, spanning 48,000 square kilometers around the uninhabited Bikar and Bokak atolls, safeguards critical habitats for green turtles, diverse marine life, and pristine coral reefs.

The Marshall Islands faces significant environmental challenges, including:

• Coastal erosion
• Climate change impacts
• Overfishing
• Pollution

MIMRA emphasizes that effective and sustainable ocean management requires the active participation of all stakeholders, from national and local leadership to communities and non-governmental organizations. The support for the Bokanbotin MPA is a testament to these collaborative efforts to protect and sustainably manage the nation's natural resources for current and future generations.