GEF Small Grants Programme Celebrates Community-Led Action and Environmental Impact in Saint Lucia

October 26, 2026

Three people in black stand behind a yellow table at a white canopy agro-tourism booth with jars. — Grantees display their products at Government House at the reception for the Presentation of the 13th Annual Report for Saint Lucia of the Global Environment Fund (GEF) Small Grants Programme, implemented by UNDP.

CASTRIES, Saint Lucia – The Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP), implemented by UNDP, presented its 13th Annual Report in Saint Lucia, highlighting more than a decade of investment in locally led environmental action, sustainable livelihoods and stronger communities.

The report was presented by GEF SGP National Coordinator, Giles Romulus, in a special event at Government House on 21 October, bringing together government officials, programme beneficiaries, members of the diplomatic community and other partners. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the programme’s achievements and recognize the people and partnerships behind its work.

Between 2012 and 2025, the programme funded 137 projects representing more than EC$26 million in total investment across GEF focal areas. More than 13,000 Saint Lucians also received training in areas ranging from project development to environmental management and sustainable development.

Bearded man in a suit at a podium, speaking into a microphone; banners with logos and flags behind. — National Coordinator of the GEF Small Grants Programme in Saint Lucia, Mr. Giles Romulus.

During the event, three grantees were recognized for exemplary community service – Ms. Nadia Cazaubon of Caribbean Waterways, Mr. Merphilus James of the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities, and Dr Cheryl Remy for nearly six years of pro bono contributions on the GEF SGP UNDP National Steering Committee.

The presentation also recognized Mr. Romulus for his 22 years of stewardship, first helping to establish the programme across the Eastern Caribbean and later anchoring the Saint Lucia country programme.

Man in a navy suit and woman in a black top pose with a framed certificate at an award ceremony.

Two men in suits exchange a framed certificate in a room with green walls and photos.

Two professionals shaking hands; woman in pink top holds a brown plaque.

Group of formally dressed people seated on couches in a formal meeting room with wall portraits.

Audience seated in a meeting room with banners on the left and a portrait on the wall.

Speaking at the presentation, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Stephanie Ziebell emphasized that the programme’s impact extends beyond the individual projects it supports.

“Its value goes beyond individual grants. It is about strengthening local capacity, giving communities and organizations the tools to develop and implement their own solutions, and demonstrating that local action can contribute meaningfully to national and global development ambitions.”

She also recognized the contribution of grantees, partners and members of the National Steering Committee, whose voluntary service helps ensure resources reach initiatives capable of making a meaningful difference.

A woman in a blue patterned dress and a man in a gray suit shake hands at a signing ceremony..

Man in a blue suit speaks at a podium during a conference, with a banner behind him.

Attendees in formal attire seated in a bright room for a ceremony, portrait on wall.

Outdoor event under white canopies on a grassy field with people mingling.

As the programme looks ahead, UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to working with communities and partners to empower communities, protect the environment and advance a more resilient and sustainable future for Saint Lucia.

The Small Grants Programme provides grants of up to US$50,000 directly to communities and works with civil society and community-based organizations, with special consideration for Indigenous Peoples, women, youth and persons with disabilities. Globally, the programme has supported more than 30,000 locally led initiatives since 1992.