NICKERIE – The Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of the Mangrove Forests (PRSUMF) organized an awareness session for the youths in the Nickerie District on September 25th.
The children from the Gaytrie Children’s Home were ‘taken’ into the world of mangrove trees by the Nature Management Division of the Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management. The children got the opportunity to learn about the various types of mangrove trees in Suriname and their role in coastal protection and the biodiversity that exists in this ecosystem. They were also given information about the threats such as human activities and climate change. The emphasis was not only on the problems but also on how these crucial forests can be protected. The children then used the information to create works of art. With these creative expressions the children showed that they understand the importance of mangrove ecosystems. The director of the Gaytrie Children’s Home, Gomtie Pahladsingh, emphasized the importance of such activities. “ It triggers their curiosity and encourages them to read and learn more. These children are the future scientists and professionals that will protect our mangrove trees,” said Pahladsingh who urged others organizations to participate in the activities of PRSUMF or to engage in their own collaborations. The PRSUMF project is carried out by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in association with the Surinamese government and is financed by the European Union.