Government, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization, is implementing the BIOREACH Project through the Ministry of Planning and Development to promote biodiversity conservation, restore degraded lands, and improve rural livelihoods.
As part of World Biodiversity Day activities, a handover ceremony of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), firefighting tools, and communication was held Thursday at the Visitor’s Centre, Botanic Gardens.
During the handover ceremony, Mr. Ric Javed Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary emphasized the significance of the occasion stating, “Today, we mark the handover of essential wildfire tools and equipment from the Ministry of Planning and Development to the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries. This crucial component of the BIOREACH Project, aims to revitalize our agricultural areas and protect the diverse ecosystems of Trinidad and Tobago.”
The equipment, valued at $250,000, is vital for the safe and effective operations of personnel in the Forestry Division who respond to wildfires, underscoring the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries’ role in environmental protection. The event highlighted the government’s commitment to efforts in safeguarding the environment, fostering sustainable development and supporting rural communities.