The World Bank has approved a $22.2 million project aimed at strengthening Suriname’s resilience against environmental shocks. This initiative focuses on enhancing flood risk management for 50,000 residents in and around Paramaribo, emphasizing community-led and women-led solutions. The project addresses the vulnerabilities related to urban flooding and disaster risks, incorporating vital infrastructure improvements and emergency preparedness strategies.
On March 2, 2025, the World Bank announced that Suriname has entered into a significant project designed to enhance resilience against environmental shocks. This project, formally called the Suriname Preparedness and Enhancing Resilient Communities Project, received approval from the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors and marks a cooperative development milestone between the two entities, focusing on disaster preparedness.
The initiative, with a budget of $22.2 million, is notable as it is the first project financed by the International Development Association (IDA) since Suriname joined this sector of the World Bank in October 2024. Its primary goal is to improve flood risk management and community resilience for 50,000 residents in Paramaribo, Saramacca, and Wanica, with an emphasis on women-led initiatives.
Suriname’s geography makes it particularly susceptible to coastal flooding and rainfall-related disasters, given that over 87% of its population resides in low-lying coastal areas. The World Bank has highlighted the urgent need for improved drainage systems and proactive measures, particularly in the Greater Paramaribo region, where the population density exacerbates vulnerability to natural disasters.
Suriname’s Minister of Finance and Planning, Stanley Raghoebarsing, emphasized the significance of the project, framing it as an investment in the community’s resilience and long-term development. He stated, “This project is not just an investment in flood prevention; it is an investment in the future resilience of our communities.”
The project will actively address issues of urban flooding, enhance disaster risk management capabilities, and foster community-driven adaptation strategies. Upgrades to drainage infrastructure, emergency preparedness systems, and local resilience initiatives will form the core of this endeavor, ensuring that communities are better equipped in the face of future environmental challenges.
World Bank Resident Representative for Suriname, Diletta Doretti, noted the transformative potential of the project, stating, “It will not only reduce flood risks for many Surinamese but also strengthen community resilience through inclusive, locally driven solutions.” The IDA’s support for the project will provide essential financing that aids in safeguarding communities and improving living standards across Suriname.
In conclusion, Suriname’s agreement with the World Bank for the Suriname Preparedness and Enhancing Resilient Communities Project signifies a crucial step in bolstering the nation’s resilience against environmental shocks. With a focus on enhancing flood preparedness and community-driven initiatives, this $22.2 million investment aims to protect vulnerable populations and promote sustainable development. The collaborative effort underscores the importance of proactive measures to mitigate future disaster risks and strengthen local capacities.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
