The community of Woburn celebrated a significant milestone on World Mangrove Day with the grand opening of the Woburn Mangrove Boardwalk, a project designed to enhance environmental education, promote sustainable tourism, and protect vital mangrove ecosystems.
The event was emceed by Arlene Friday, CEO of the Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association (GHTA), and featured distinguished guests, including PS Perron Johnson from the Ministry of Climate Resilience, the Environmental and Renewable Energy; Elvis Lewis, President of the GHTA; Tyrone Buckmire, the Founder and Executive Director of the Grenada Fund for Conservation (GFC), and Phil Saye, VP of GFC, among others.
Funded by the GHTA Tourism Enhancement Fund, the Woburn Mangrove Boardwalk is an eco-friendly structure that stretches through the lush mangrove wetlands, providing both locals and tourists with a unique opportunity to experience and appreciate Grenada’s rich biodiversity. The boardwalk is designed to minimise environmental impact while offering educational insights into the importance of mangroves in climate resilience, coastal protection, and biodiversity conservation.
During the opening ceremony, PS Perron Johnson emphasised the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the vital role that community initiatives like the Woburn Mangrove Boardwalk play in fostering awareness and action. “Today, we take a step forward in our collective efforts to protect our natural resources and promote sustainable practices that benefit both our environment and our economy,” she stated.
Lewis expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting that it aligns perfectly with Grenada’s vision for sustainable tourism. “This boardwalk not only showcases our natural beauty but also highlights the importance of conservation in our tourism industry. We are excited to financially support this eco-tourism experience through our Tourism Enhancement Fund,” he said.
Buckmire addressed attendees, underscoring the collaborative efforts of various organisations, including the Nature Fund for Conservation, the Woburn/Woodlands Development Organisation, and Moorsafe, in bringing this project to fruition. “It is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together for a common goal — the preservation of our environment for future generations.”
As part of the celebrations, attendees enjoyed a walk along the boardwalk, educational displays about mangrove ecosystems, and opportunities to connect with local conservation efforts. The Woburn Mangrove Boardwalk is expected to become a key attraction for nature enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists seeking to explore Grenada’s natural beauty while supporting conservation initiatives.
The Woburn Mangrove Boardwalk is open to the public, and all are encouraged to visit and experience the wonders of Grenada’s mangrove habitats. For more information, contact [email protected].
GHTA