KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – Canada is providing funding for a project aimed at rebuilding infrastructure and recovery support of the seamoss industry in St. Vincent following the passage of Hurricane Beryl in July.
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), is providing funding to the SeaMoss Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SMASVG) that has launched its new project, “Rebuilding Infrastructure and Recovery Support in the Aftermath of Hurricane Beryl”.
The project aims to provide critical support to 10 vulnerable women in the sea moss industry who were severely impacted by the hurricane and SMASVG, which was established last year, is a grassroots community-based non-profit dedicated to securing a consistent and sustainable supply chain for Vincentian sea moss.
The virtual project launch brought together government officials, partners, stakeholders, and beneficiaries who shared insights on the impact of Hurricane Beryl on the local sea moss industry and the CFLI project’s objectives over the next five months.
Political counsellor at the High Commission of Canada to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Miriam van Nie, said Ottowa was glad to be able to support the work to rebuild an industry with huge potential for small producers and one that is vulnerable to climate change and the unpredictability of natural disasters.
“We hope that this initiative contributes to building back more sustainably,” van Nie said.
Minister of Grenadines Affairs and Local Government, Benarva Browne, emphasised the importance of collaboration and support.
“The recovery of our communities and industries is a collective effort. This project exemplifies the strength and resilience of our people and the solidarity we must maintain to overcome these challenges,” Browne said.
A news release issued here noted that following an open call for submissions, 10 vulnerable women in the Grenadines were selected to participate in the CFLI project that is designed to offer comprehensive support to the sea moss community by rebuilding small businesses.
The project will provide emotional support, offering essential psychosocial support to assist participants in their recovery from trauma and cope with the challenges experience.
It will also enhance business acumen and offer financial training, enhancing participants’ business skills and financial management through targeted training and workshops.
It will also provide networking and instill best practices, establishing a network of support to share knowledge and best practices within the industry.
“This project is a beacon of hope and resilience for the women of the Grenadines, who are at the heart of the sea moss industry. It represents, not only a chance to rebuild, but also an opportunity to advance and thrive in the face of adversity,” the release added.
