In attempts to strengthen the network of protected areas in the Guyana Shield, the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Amazonian Park of French Guiana on Wednesday hosted a discussion to acknowledge the aspects of sustainable developments in Guyana and its neighbouring countries, Suriname and French Guiana.
While using French Guiana as a demonstration, it was noted that Guyana can attempt to enhance its protected areas; a project which was expanded to 2020.
During his brief address, President of the Amazonian Park of French Guiana, Claude Suzanonm emphasised on the works done to establish 10 national parks
Deputy Director of the Amazonian Park of French Guiana, Arnaud Anselin
in specific areas across French Guiana.
He related that the main factor behind the success of these parks stemmed from reliable law enforcement which tackles issues such as illegal mining in those areas.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director of the Amazonian Park of French Guiana, Arnaud Anselin further highlighted the methods which Guyana and other countries can adopt to successfully programme a national park that will boost eco-tourism.
“It’s interesting to see the difficulties that we share and the questions that we ask that can lead to successful cooperation of the projects in Guyana,” the Deputy Director said.
This, he reiterated, can only be made possible by establishing good relations with Indigenous communities and local municipalities. With this, the rainforest would be made available to all, including the disabled, he added.
Furthermore, the responsible sectors can capitalise on the human resources that are present within the regions, where training can be done to create an additional workforce to assist with the organisation of these proposed national parks.
“There is also the possibility to adapt the legal framework on regulations that can help in developing tourism and other economic projects. The protection of biodiversity is adapting to the local communities,” he stated.
Additionally, Commissioner of the PAC, Denise Fraser, stated the difficulties being faced by Suriname and French Guiana are somewhat similar to that which Guyana is currently being faced with, as it relates to the forest resources and development.
“We feel that we have similar, very similar issues, especially when it comes to mining. We are trying to keep illegal mining out of the protected areas. We also have to deal with community engagement and our mission is to effectively manage our protected areas while ensuring that they advance to the lives of the present and future generations,” Fraser related.
To foster technical dialogue between countries that are attempting to develop their natural resources and establishing sustainably developed national parks, funds have been injected into projects by European entities which will see future partnerships between the PAC and Surinamese Ministries that are focused on the forest and natural resources of the country.
These projects are expected to last from 2018 until 2020.
