GFDD and FUNGLODE Sign Agreement with Counterpart International

FUNGLODE/GFDD, represented by Natasha Despotovich, Executive Director of GFDD, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Counterpart International represented by its President, Mr. Lelei Lelaulu, to develop projects involving the protection of the environment, tourism, environment and local communities, and training programs for youth at
risk.

The progressive degradation of coastal areas caused by human action negatively affects not only tourism, one of the main industries in the country, but also the livelihood and quality of life of the population living in the area. The astounding success that the Dominican Republic has achieved with its tourist industry could be threatened by the degradation of the

environment. It is of most importance to mitigate the harm done
and to establish the conditions for a progressive recuperation and protection of the affected areas.

Counterparts’ Coral Gardens Project constitutes a perfect instrument to recover our coral reefs and mangroves, the recuperation of the endemic populations of mammals and fish. This program relays on the collaboration of the local communities, fishers associations, and youth of the area, who will be trained in information and
communication technologies applied to tourism.

The Memorandum includes the participation of Counterpart International in the first CIEMADeS conference on Caribbean Environment and Sustainable Development that will take place in August. Other aspects of the collaboration will include the creation of Forest Gardens that will encourage the production

of organic coffees and cocoas that are particularly popular in the US specialty markets through CAFTA, and the creation of a Peace Park in the border between the Dominican Republic and Haiti involving the youth of the areas.

Related link:
www.counterpart.org