Water Storage Capacity Boosted on the Grenadian Island of Carriacou by 15,000 Gallons

March 15, 2019

Mr. Toshihide Kanaya, Second Secretary with the Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago hands the keys to the newly refurbished Grand Bay cistern to Mr. Ronald Gittens, Chairman, Mount Pleasant/Grand Bay Community Group

The UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) Japan-Caribbean Climate Change Partnership (J-CCCP) Project handed over keys to the Grand Bay Cistern to the Government of Grenada. This act symbolized the completion of three J-CCCP supported pilot projects on the island of Carriacou. Two of the three projects focused on expanding water storage capacity on the drought affected island, while the third sought to enhance livestock production by promoting climate smart feeding.

Water storage capacity on Carriacou has increased by fifteen thousand gallons following repair of the community cistern and the expansion of the water catchment area at the Princess Royal Hospital. The hospital also now features water efficient toilets and faucets in order to promote water conservation. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Ms. Chisa Mikami, UNDP Resident Representative a.i. remarked that, “UNDP J-CCCP is happy to support these efforts at the Princess Margaret Hospital and for the residents of the Grand Bay community. The importance of these projects cannot be understated, considering the drought Carriacou is currently experiencing and, has experienced in past years.”

Likewise, Second Secretary with the Embassy of Japan, Mr. Toshihide Kanaya, observing advancements made during the projects, commented on Japan’s relations with the region. Mr. Kanaya said, “The Government has sought to support CARICOM governments in tackling climate change impacts.” He further mentioned work supported by the Government of Japan in the region, including disaster risk reduction.

The Carriacou Pasture Improvement Paddocking Project, implemented in partnership with the Division of Agriculture and Carriacou Farmers Association, aimed to increase fodder production, given dry spells experienced on the island. This was accomplished by the provision of drought tolerant seeds, the establishment of four 1 acre pastures and capacity building. Mrs. Kindra Maturine-Stewart, Honourable Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs noted that the “project benefits not only the fifty farmers directly involved but, all Carriacou residents as there is the possibility for an increase in our water holding capacity and animal production.”