IDB to Support Suriname in Improving Spatial Planning and Environmental Management

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a US$30 million project to help Suriname build up its institutional capacity to manage land use. This seven-year operation will strengthen the country's frameworks and tools for spatial and environmental planning and boost the operational capabilities of the Ministry of Spatial Planning and Environment and the National Environmental Authority.

In Suriname, changes in land use are driven by economic growth, demographic pressures, and unplanned urban expansion, among other factors. The country's population has tripled from 1950 to 2022, posing a threat to its valuable natural resources and ecosystems that are critical for economic development and climate change mitigation as they rely heavily on natural capital.

The IDB's Board of Executive Directors has approved the operation, which includes initiatives such as the creation of a Green Development Vision Framework and a National Spatial Planning Strategy, the implementation of an environmental information system, and a Geospatial Intelligence Center. The project will also set up a monitoring mechanism for climate transparency. Additionally, the loan will fund the construction of two bioclimatic buildings to house the Ministry of Spatial Planning and Environment and the National Environmental Authority.

The project also incorporates gender and diversity inclusion aspects, providing training on nondiscriminatory practices and ensuring that people with disabilities have no difficulties in accessing the new facilities and digital systems.

This operation is aligned with Suriname's international commitments in its Multi-Annual Development Plan 2022-2026, expanding the country's capacity to achieve sustainable and climate-resilient development.

The IDB loan has a 22.5-year repayment term and an eight-year grace period.