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The incredible destiny of Mundiya Kepenga

By Philippe

5 February 2026

From reverse exploration to defending the planet

The story of Mundiya and France began with photographer and film-maker Marc Dozier. After a first trip co-organized by Philippe Gigliotti, which gave rise to the book Le Long-long voyage, Mundiya became the hero of the cult film L’exploration inversée. By reversing the roles of the explorer, they offered us a striking mirror of our own Western culture, with unforgettable humor and accuracy.

Over the years, Mundiya’s words have taken on a major political and environmental dimension. In 2017, the documentary “Brothers of the Trees” revealed to the world the ravages of deforestation in Papua. Since then, Mundiya has continued to take this message to the highest authorities: from the French Senate to UNESCO, via the COP on climate.

A global ambassador and Honorary Doctor

Since 2019, Mundiya’s career has reached new prestigious milestones. Recognized as a key figure in the environmental cause, he was elevated to the rank of Doctor Honoris Causa by the University of Le Havre Normandie in 2024, a rare distinction underlining the importance of his traditional knowledge in the face of the climate emergency.

In 2023 and 2025, he continued to travel around Europe, even inaugurating a “Quai Mundiya Kepanga” in Nevers, symbolizing the indestructible link that now unites him with France. His new film, “Gardiens de la forêt : le temps des solutions”, shows that Mundiya is actively working on sustainable alternatives to protect his territory.

Special trip: Immersion in the village of Mundiya (September 2026)

Mundiya is much more than a media figure; he’s a long-standing friend of Voyages en Papouasie. After years of closure for security reasons, we are happy to confirm that the situation has stabilized, allowing us to return to his land.

We’re organizing an exceptional trip from September 21 to October 4, 2026 Sacred rituals and nature in Papua, with Marc Dozier and Mundiya Kepanga. This unique trip will take you directly to Mundiya’s village. You’ll be welcomed into the daily lives of the Hulis. The trip also includes a foray into the Sepik River region to witness the ceremonies of the Crocodile Men.

Meet Mundiya before you leave! Between March and June 2026, Mundiya Kepanga will be on a lecture tour of France, Belgium and Switzerland. An ideal opportunity to chat with him before he returns to his homeland in September.