Castries, Saint Lucia - The Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund (SLUNCF) made another significant contribution to national conservation through the release of a suite of highly engaging communication materials at a media launch event on Friday, January 31st at the National Agricultural Diagnostic Facility at Union, Castries. These included a catchy but informative jingle; a video animation narrated in both English and Creole; an instructional poster and a 15-minute documentary. ‘Together, these communication materials will be used to promote improved understanding and practice of environmentally sustainable seamoss production in Saint Lucia’ says Mr Craig Henry, CEO of the SLUNCF. This initiative is part of an umbrella project aimed at Enhancing the Effective Management of Savannes Bay within the Pointe Sable Environmental Protection Area to Support Livelihoods and Protect Biodiversity which was funded by the BIOPAMA (Biodiversity and Protected Areas Management) Rapid Response Grant.
The event brought together key stakeholders and representatives from local community organizations, government and partner agencies, and highlight how collaborative efforts can bolster increased sensitivity and practice of sustainable resource use patterns, particularly within Saint Lucia’s critical ecosystems. This project empowered the SLUNCF to initiate targeted activities that safeguard and enhance the natural resources in Savannes Bay, ensuring sustainable development that benefits both the environment and the local communities dependent on these resources. Although this project officially ended in September 2024, this event was held to ensure that all stakeholders remain engaged beyond the project’s life cycle through these messages.
“I am delighted to see the culmination of our hard work through the launch of these communication materials. We believe that effective communication is key to engaging our communities in conservation efforts, and we look forward to seeing these materials make a positive impact.”, said Mr. Craig Henry.
Among those in attendance were officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development who lauded the project and its outcomes. The Deputy Chief Fisheries Officer, Mr Thomas Nelson emphasized that “the initiative was not just about conservation; it is about ensuring that the livelihoods of our communities are maintained while simultaneously protecting our biodiversity. The collaborative strategies illustrated today will take us one step closer to achieving that balance.”
These sentiments were echoed by the Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bradley St Ange: “The Ministry of Agriculture is fully committed to the enhancement of our natural resources. This project under the BIOPAMA RRG exemplifies the type of proactive initiative that we encourage and support. Collaborating with the SLUNCF and various partners allows us to amplify our conservation efforts.”
All the communication materials were created by local artists who themselves discovered more about the practical implications of the term sustainable development. The SLUNCF is grateful to the BIOPAMA Programme and all collaborators for their support, as it allows the organization to advance vital initiatives and promote the sustainable use of natural resources in Saint Lucia.
Photos from the Launch:
For more information about the Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund and its initiatives, please visit our website at www.sluncf.org, or contact us at info@sluncf.org for inquiries.
Capturing The Seamoss Journey
Discover the evolving story of Savannes Bay through an engaging video documentary and captivating animations. This production sheds light on the ongoing initiatives within the Pointe Sable Environmental Protection Area (PSEPA), where dedicated efforts are shaping a more sustainable future. Through vivid storytelling and compelling visuals, explore the actions taken to support local livelihoods, safeguard biodiversity, and address pressing environmental and safety concerns.
Link to animation and documentary: https://www.sluncf.org/seamosinsavannesbay
About SLUNCF: The Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund (SLUNCF) is dedicated to the conservation of Saint Lucia's natural resources and the promotion of sustainable development. Through partnerships with local, regional, and international organizations, the SLUNCF provides funding and support to initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, build community resilience, and foster sustainable livelihoods.
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