Closing ceremony commemorates successful AKTA beekeeping project in Castle Bruce

To celebrate the successful conclusion of a beekeeping project funded by the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP), a Community Impact & Project Milestones Ceremony was hosted by the Anse Kouanari Tourism Association Inc. (AKTA) on December 29, 2025, in Castle Bruce

It also marked the official launch of an ecosystem restoration initiative supported by the Dominica National Conservation Trust Fund (DNCTF),  as shared by a press release.

A major feature of the occasion was the graduation of 21 community members who received certificates for completing basic beekeeping training. The event also served as a platform for participants to share their experiences, with beneficiaries highlighting how the project has improved their skills, boosted their confidence, and strengthened their dedication to environmental preservation.

“I never knew bees were so important to human survival. This project changed how I see farming and the environment. My bees are healthy, and I plan to increase my number of hives by 100% in the first quarter of 2026,” remarked one of the participants.

According to the release, during the ceremony, Mr. Keian Stephenson, Director of Agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, expressed that the initiative was a positive development from the Ministry’s perspective, as it will help increase pollinator populations and boost honey production along Dominica’s eastern coast.

Mr. Kevin James, President of the National Beekeeper’s Cooperative Society Ltd., reportedly emphasized the vital role of bees in environmental sustainability and as a sustainable livelihood.

He reaffirmed the Cooperative’s ongoing partnership with AKTA to strengthen the apiculture sector and position Dominica as a regional leader in beekeeping.

Mr. James urged beneficiaries to continue their efforts—transitioning “from training to practice, from interest to involvement and from individual effort to collective growth”.

AKTA’s new project, supported by the DNCTF,  was also officially inaugurated at the event. AKTA shared that the project aims to build on the apiary program’s achievements by enhancing ecosystem restoration, fostering climate-resilient livelihoods, and increasing community participation in conservation activities across Castle Bruce District.

Furthermore, AKTA announced the upcoming launch of a free plant propagation training program set to begin in late January, inviting local farmers and residents to sign up.

In its statement, AKTA extended heartfelt gratitude to the UNDP GEF SGP, DNCTF, partner organizations, trainers, and community members whose collaboration made these initiatives possible. Special appreciation was given to Global Affairs Canada, the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, and CUSO International for their funding and support of the new ecosystem restoration project.

Looking forward, AKTA says it remains dedicated to promoting sustainable development, conserving biodiversity, and empowering youth and communities through inclusive, locally driven strategies.