Grenada has obtained significant international backing for its ambitious marine conservation agenda, securing $300,000 in funding from the Compete Caribbean+ program. This financial support will power a comprehensive Technical Cooperation initiative focused on implementing the nation’s Framework for Sustainable Ocean Governance.
The groundbreaking project merges two critical marine priorities: finalizing Grenada’s National Ocean Policy and Strategic Action Plan (NOP/SAP), and launching an enhanced offshore fisheries monitoring system. The initiative emerged from diplomatic discussions spearheaded by Kerryne James, Minister for Climate Resilience, the Environment and Renewable Energy. Ambassador Jerry Enoe, Grenada’s Special Envoy for Oceans, developed the proposal in coordination with the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs.
Notably, the project’s funding increased by 50% from its original $200,000 proposal following sustained advocacy efforts by Ambassador Enoe, including presentations at the IDB Regional Dialogue Meeting in Bridgetown, Barbados in October 2025.
Ambassador Enoe emphasized the significance of this partnership: “This expanded collaboration with Compete Caribbean+ represents a substantial advancement for Grenada’s Blue Economy. It empowers us to strengthen domestic governance while simultaneously fulfilling international obligations, including NOAA marine mammal protection standards and climate targets specified in our Nationally Determined Contributions.”
Kayla Grant, Executive Director at Compete Caribbean+, highlighted the human dimension of the initiative: “Sustainable ocean governance fundamentally concerns people—fisherfolk, entrepreneurs, families, and future generations who depend on healthy marine ecosystems. With our donors’ support, Compete Caribbean+ is enabling Grenada to enhance climate resilience, foster private sector innovation, and implement inclusive, data-driven solutions that safeguard marine environments while promoting sustainable economic development.”
The Technical Cooperation initiative is structured around three core components:
1. Formalizing Governance Frameworks ($405,000 EC): Finalizing and submitting the NOP/SAP to Cabinet, integrating climate commitments, and establishing a National Ocean Governance Committee.
2. Institutionalization and Public Engagement ($135,000 EC): Developing comprehensive public communication strategies, including outreach materials and engagement activities to build awareness and support for Grenada’s ocean policy.
3. Technology Adoption for Monitoring and Compliance ($270,000 EC): Installing Electronic and Vessel Monitoring Systems on longline fishing vessels, creating marine mammal interaction protocols, and providing training to enhance data reporting and regulatory compliance.
Minister James noted the broader implications: “This initiative demonstrates Grenada’s leadership in merging climate resilience with ocean sustainability. It establishes a paradigm for aligning national and global priorities through innovative, inclusive partnerships.”
The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs will oversee project implementation with technical support from the Inter-American Development Bank. The initiative is projected to yield long-term institutional, ecological, and economic benefits for Grenada’s marine sector.
Compete Caribbean+ is a private sector development program jointly funded by the Inter-American Development Bank, the United Kingdom Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the Government of Canada.