Iwokrama records major gains in conservation, tourism

Apr 01, 2026 News

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…but illegal mining remains a threats

(Kaieteur News) – The Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development has reported significant progress in conservation, tourism, and research for 2025, even as illegal gold mining continues to threaten sections of the protected forest.

According to its 2025 Annual Report, the Centre retained its international forest certification and expanded its eco-tourism product, welcoming more than 1,500 visitors during the year. The report highlights that Iwokrama also secured membership in the Global Biodiversity Alliance, further strengthening its global conservation standing.

Chief Executive Officer, Dane Gobin, noted that the Centre continues to position Guyana as a model for sustainable forest management, balancing environmental protection with economic development under the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.

Illegal mining

Despite these gains, illegal mining remains a major concern. The report revealed that joint enforcement operations involving the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission led to arrests of foreign nationals in December 2025.

Iwokrama stated that monitoring efforts were intensified, with over 70 monitoring trips conducted across roadways, rivers, and forest boundaries. Approximately 519 kilometres of forest boundaries were also marked to reduce illegal incursions and improve surveillance. In forestry, operations covered 1,224 hectares across 20 felling blocks, though challenges such as cash flow constraints and equipment shortages impacted production. Still, 58 percent of the approved annual harvest target was achieved.

On the tourism front, the Centre recorded major recognition, including awards from the Guyana Tourism Authority and Visit Rupununi. The Iwokrama River Lodge was named Accommodation Provider of the Year, while a staff member secured Tour Guide of the Year. The report also noted increased international engagement, including visits from diplomats, government officials, and global conservation leaders.

Looking ahead, Gobin said the Centre will focus on long-term financial sustainability, expanding partnerships, and launching a Centre for Biodiversity Excellence in collaboration with the Government of Guyana and the Commonwealth Secretariat.  Additionally, in its report Iwokrama said they have significantly expanded their community and youth engagement programmes, reaching more than 400 young people across 18 communities in 2025. Speaking about the centre’s Wildlife Clubs initiative in the North Rupununi, Iwokrama said the programme focuses on environmental education, leadership, and conservation training for youths aged 7 to 24.

Chairman Fareed Amin said the initiative is helping to develop a new generation of conservation leaders while strengthening ties between communities and forest management efforts. The Wildlife Clubs participated in a major festival under the theme “Innovate, Preserve and Protect the Future of our Culture and Nature,” showcasing environmental knowledge through STEM projects, art, and cultural performances.

Beyond youth engagement, Iwokrama conducted outreach in 10 schools across Guyana, reaching more than 300 students through environmental awareness sessions. Topics included conservation, protected areas, and the impact of littering, the report stated.

Training programmes were also expanded, with over 55 university students and more than 125 community students participating in study tours, internships, and field-based learning. Institutions involved included the University of Guyana and international partners such as Drexel University.

Additionally, technical training was delivered in areas such as biodiversity assessment, litter prevention, fire safety, and eco-tourism operations. Several participants from hinterland communities were trained in tour guiding, hospitality, and leadership.

The report also highlighted collaboration with the North Rupununi District Development Board, which continues to play a key role in co-managing resources and supporting community-led conservation.

Meanwhile, new educational tools were introduced, including a conservation-themed board game, “Wildlife Wonders,” designed to teach students about biodiversity in an interactive way. Iwokrama said these efforts are part of a broader push to integrate education, community development, and conservation, ensuring that local populations remain central to the protection of Guyana’s vast rainforest resources. The Centre plans to further expand these programmes in 2026, alongside the launch of new digital tools and publications aimed at deepening environmental awareness nationwide.

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• conservation, Illegal mining, Iwokrama, Tourism

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