Tobago has received new equipment to help tackle the recurring problem of sargassum seaweed that affects the island’s coastline during certain times of the year. The handover ceremony, held on Tuesday, marked a collaborative effort between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Trinidad and Tobago and the Government of Japan.
Director of the Tobago Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Allan Stewart, described the donation as a historic moment for the island, emphasizing the importance of capacity building for Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS). He noted that the tangible support provided by Japan reflects real progress in regional preparedness and resilience efforts.
Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly, Farley Augustine, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting its importance for local communities and industries impacted by sargassum, such as fishing, tourism, and hospitality. He recalled the first major sargassum invasion in Tobago’s eastern region in 2011, which caused significant environmental and economic disruption.
Japanese Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Akima Umezawa, shared that his visit to Tobago’s eastern coast inspired Japan’s decision to collaborate with the island to restore and protect its beaches. He explained that the equipment, including a specialized tractor, symbolizes Japan’s commitment to supporting Tobago’s coastal cleanup efforts through its partnership with the UNDP.
UNDP Resident Representative, Ugo Blanco, noted that while the equipment will help with cleanup operations, future efforts will focus on finding sustainable and profitable uses for the collected sargassum. He mentioned potential innovations such as producing biogas or biodegradable plastics from the seaweed, suggesting that further research and collaboration could turn the challenge into an opportunity.
The initiative is part of a broader five-country arrangement supported by Japan and the UNDP. Chief Secretary Augustine announced that more equipment, including boats and booms, will soon arrive to strengthen Tobago’s response to sargassum influxes. Additionally, the Japanese Government also funded the CERT Speyside Response Centre, which was officially opened on the same day, further demonstrating Japan’s commitment to supporting Tobago’s disaster preparedness and environmental resilience.
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