Small Island States hold workshop
The role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in integrated data analysis and management of watersheds and coastal areas was the focus of discussions at a workshop organized by the GEF-funded Integrating Watershed and Coastal Areas Management in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (IWCAM) project from 5th – 6th July 2007 at the Garraway Hotel in Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica.{{more}}
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Caribbean and elsewhere face common water-related issues such as coastal area management and biodiversity, tourism development, protection of water supplies, and land and marine-based sources of pollution. The US$ 112.66 million IWCAM project (GEF funding US$ 14.39 million) is designed to strengthen commitment and capacity in Caribbean SIDS to meet these challenges.
A detailed capacity needs assessment commissioned by the project in February 2006 provided the basis for the design of a Road Map to guide the effective development and management of GIS resources, which can be used to plan and manage the regionâs aquatic resources on a sustainable basis.
âGIS technology is an important tool,â explained Vincent Sweeney, Regional Project Coordinator. âOur aim is to incorporate its use in various components of the project and expand and improve GIS capacity and use in all Caribbean SIDS.â
The workshop, which was attended by representatives of all 13 Caribbean countries participating in the project, was held to seek regional consensus on developing the Road Map and effectively mainstreaming the use of GIS in the region. Participants contributed to the revision of the draft Road Map; sought consensus for mainstreaming GIS amongst stakeholders; and considered ways to strengthen the network of key stakeholders.
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