LocationsSaint Lucia Advancing Coordinated National Response to Sargassum Influxes
February 25, 2026
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change, Hon. Lisa Jawahir, speaking at a ceremony for the handover of equipment under the Japan-funded Improving National Sargassum Management Capacities in the Caribbean project.
CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA, 25 February, 2026 – The Government of Saint Lucia has announced plans to advance a coordinated, multi‑sectoral national mechanism to strengthen the country’s response to the growing challenge of sargassum influxes, as new equipment was officially handed over under the Improving National Sargassum Management Capacities in the Caribbean project, supported by the Government of Japan and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Speaking at the handover ceremony on 24 February, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change, Hon. Lisa Jawahir, indicated that the Government is actively advancing consideration of a multi‑sectoral sargassum management task force, bringing together relevant ministries, departments and agencies.
The proposed approach will prioritize early warning systems, scientific monitoring, environmentally responsible removal and disposal practices, and the exploration of safe and sustainable opportunities for use, as part of a strengthened national sargassum management strategy. Minister Jawahir also commended the dedication of public officers, fisherfolk cooperatives and community members whose ongoing efforts continue to protect Saint Lucia’s coastlines and livelihoods.
The Japan-funded project supports improved monitoring and early warning systems, enhanced field‑level response, increased public awareness, and the equipping of agencies and frontline personnel with the tools needed for safe and environmentally responsible sargassum management. These investments are intended to shift countries from reactive responses toward more informed, timely decision‑making that ensures equipment and personnel are deployed in the right place at the right time.
The equipment handed over - including tractors, boats and personal protective equipment (PPE) – forms part of a regional initiative designed to strengthen national readiness to monitor, prepare for, prevent and respond to sargassum influxes.
In remarks delivered by Japan’s Honorary Consul in Saint Lucia, Mr. Cletus Springer, the Government of Japan reaffirmed its commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development.
“As a fellow island nation, Japan understands the unique vulnerabilities faced by island states,” the Honorary Consul said. “Japan is determined to work hand-in-hand with Saint Lucia to address these challenges, enhance fisheries productivity and improve the livelihoods of coastal communities.”
The handover, he noted, symbolises the enduring friendship and strong cooperation between the two countries, and Japan’s unwavering support for Saint Lucia’s sustainable future.
This was underscored by Minister Jawahir, who said, “Today’s ceremony transcends the symbolic transfer of machinery and assets. It stands as a testament to enduring international partnerships, shared responsibility and meaningful solidarity among nations.”
She noted that the equipment represents far more than logistical support, embodying trust, friendship and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. “It affirms confidence in Saint Lucia’s resolve to safeguard its people, its livelihoods and its fragile coastal ecosystems,” she added.
Meanwhile, UNDP Resident Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Mrs. Limya Eltayeb, expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s partnership, describing it as a long‑standing relationship built on trust and close collaboration.
“I am grateful for the partnership and trust that UNDP has with the people and Government of Japan. It is a long‑standing relationship, and our teams have worked very closely to move this project forward,” the Resident Representative said.
“It is not about the money alone. It is about true partnership in finding solutions. Japan has a history with fisheries, tourism and coastal management, and we are pleased that Saint Lucia has been able to benefit from that expertise and experience.”
Highlighting the broader significance of the initiative, the UNDP Resident Representative added that the project is about working together to strengthen national systems. “We know that the scale and frequency of sargassum influxes and other climatic events are increasing, not decreasing. That is why we are contributing not only equipment, but coordinated, sustainable approaches for long‑term sargassum management.”
The other countries participating in this regional project are Barbados, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.
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