Kew Gardens delegation departs after 10-day working visit to SVG

A FAREWELL RECEPTION was hosted at Coconut Grove in honour of a visiting delegation from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK, marking the conclusion of a 10-day working visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

At the reception, organized by the British High Commission, Resident British Commissioner Geoffrey Patton, expressed appreciation for the team’s contributions during their stay, which included workshops, conservation training, and site visits across the nation.

He noted that the collaboration had strengthened the longstanding relationship between Kew and SVG, emphasizing the delegation’s role in capacity building and plant conservation.

Governor General, Dame Susan Dougan, reflected on the historical and cultural significance of the St. Vincent Botanic Gardens, which celebrated its 260th anniversary this year. The Governor General highlighted the challenges faced by the gardens over the years due to hurricanes and volcanic eruptions, and underscored the importance of restoration efforts.

“The Botanic Gardens are a valuable part of our existence and our culture,” Dame Susan said, adding that this new phase of collaboration with Kew is vital to sustaining and reviving the gardens for future generations.

The Governor General also recognized the contributions of local partners and advocates, whose continued support has been instrumental in advancing the project.

As a gesture of national gratitude, she presented a token to the Kew delegation.

Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority, Gideon Nash, described the visit as a critical knowledge exchange. He noted that the planned visit of Vincentian staff to Kew Gardens later this year would further strengthen expertise in conservation and restoration.

“We are not only the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere, I dare say we are also the most beautiful,” Nash remarked, expressing optimism that the exchange will breathe new life into the gardens.

The farewell reception closed a successful visit that reinforced the role of the St. Vincent Botanic Gardens as a hub for biodiversity conservation, education, and cultural heritage. (API)