The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Government of Japan, has officially handed over specialised equipment to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Sustainable Development, strengthening Saint Lucia’s national response to the growing sargassum challenge.
The handover forms part of the “Improving National Sargassum Management Capacities in the Caribbean” project, launched in 2022 to support five Caribbean countries in building the capacity to effectively manage and mitigate the impacts of sargassum seaweed. The initiative, funded by US$12.3 million from the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP, combines equipment procurement with technical training, capacity building, and the development of site-specific management plans aimed at reducing the negative effects of sargassum on coastal ecosystems, tourism, fisheries, and public health.
At the official ceremony, two boats, three tractors, specialised attachments designed for the efficient removal of sargassum seaweed, and protective equipment were formally presented to the ministry. The equipment is expected to significantly enhance on-the-ground response efforts, particularly in heavily affected coastal communities. Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean UNDP Resident Representative, Limya Eltayeb, underscored the importance of this timely intervention in mitigating the threat of sargassum to Saint Lucia’s coastal ecosystems, tourism industry, and fisheries sector.
“We are here to strengthen Saint Lucia’s efforts in addressing the challenges posed by sargassum on the coastlines. We are here not only to hand over much needed equipment and very timely and pertinent equipment, but we’re also here to reinforce national systems. We are here to support front-line responders.
We are here to support local communities, fisherwomen and fishermen, those who work in the tourism sector, those who are on the front line in their daily jobs and see that being taken away wave by wave as sargassum is influxing into their space. We are here to protect livelihoods, we are here to protect environment, we are here to protect public health, we are here to protect public investments and public systems.”
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Sustainable Development, Lisa Jawahir, emphasised that strengthened collaboration among nations and agencies has positioned Saint Lucia to more effectively confront the recurring influxes of sargassum seaweed. Safeguarding fragile coastal ecosystems remains a national priority, as these areas are vital to livelihoods, food security, and the island’s economic stability.
“Today’s ceremony transcends the symbolic transfer of machinery and assets. It stands as a testament to enduring international partnerships, shared responsibility and meaningful solidarity among nations. Through the generous financial assistance of the government and people of Japan and the technical cooperation of the United Nations Development Programme, Saint Lucia is now significantly better positioned to strengthen its national response to the growing and complex challenge of sargassum influxes.
Now this equipment being handed over today, including tractors, boats and associated operational tools, represents far more than logistical support. It embodies trust, friendship and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. It affirms confidence in Saint Lucia’s resolve to safeguard its people, its livelihoods and its fragile coastal ecosystems.”
The Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to utilising the newly acquired resources, ensuring that Saint Lucia remains proactive in addressing the environmental and socio-economic impacts of sargassum.