Guyana, UN strengthen biodiversity partnership
May 19 2026
The Government of Guyana and the United Nations have signed a Declaration of Intent (DOI) formalising the UN’s participation in the Global Biodiversity Alliance, further strengthening collaboration on biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development.
The agreement was signed on May 18, 2026, at the Office of the President in Georgetown by Gail Teixeira, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, and Jean Kamau, UN Resident Coordinator in Guyana. The signing ceremony was hosted by Mohamed Irfaan Ali and attended by senior government officials along with representatives from various UN agencies and programmes operating in the country.
President Ali described the partnership as a significant affirmation of Guyana’s commitment to protecting its forests, biodiversity and natural resources through sustainable and innovative development strategies. He noted that Guyana’s leadership in climate and biodiversity diplomacy continues to demonstrate that economic growth and environmental stewardship can coexist, while also creating opportunities for global cooperation and knowledge sharing.
Jean Kamau said the United Nations was pleased to become part of the initiative, noting that the alliance closely aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promotes South-South cooperation among developing nations.
Under the Declaration of Intent, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to integrating biodiversity protection into national development planning and sustainable investment strategies. The agreement also places strong emphasis on the inclusion of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, recognising their role and traditional knowledge in biodiversity conservation efforts.
The partnership is expected to improve coordination, data-sharing and information exchange on biodiversity action within the UN Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks and the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, while further supporting Guyana’s growing influence in global climate and biodiversity discussions.
