A new initiative called “Chibiribiquete, a Landscape Forever” was announced on April 25th, focused on protecting Colombia’s Chiribiquete National Park. This program will receive funding from international organizations to ensure its conservation efforts.
Colombian National Natural Parks, the Zoological Society of Frankfurt, and the German fund Legacy Landscapes have partnered to establish the program. Chibiriquete will receive an annual budget of at least $1 million for a minimum of 30 years, dedicated to bolstering the park’s management and protection.
Preserving Colombia’s Largest Protected Area
The funding will support conservation efforts across a significant portion of the park – 6,670,816 acres of land. Chiribiquete is Colombia’s largest protected area, covering over 4 million acres within the Caqueta, Putumayo, and Amazon regions.
In 2023, the Legacy Landscapes Fund selected Chibiriquete to join 14 other natural parks in Africa, Asia, and South America for long-term funding to protect their biodiversity and natural resources.
Community Collaboration
The fund will also support the development of relationships with communities and territories surrounding Chibiriquite. Coordinated efforts with local and indigenous authorities, as well as municipal and environmental officials in the area, will be a key part of the program’s efforts.
The Ministry of Environment warns that threats to Chiribiquete’s conservation include deforestation, an increase in illicit crops, and the development of illegal infrastructure. “Colombia’s national parks do not maintain themselves,” said Luis Olmedo, director of Natural Parks. “We require greater efforts and collaboration, along with resources that will ensure fair compensation for our workers.”