Makandra Project Suriname

The aim of the project is to develop a roadmap and plan to promote a structured data and information provision for the government of Suriname. The roadmap will reflect the vision and the goal and the plan will describe concrete activities to achieve that goal. Roadmap and plan focus on storing, sharing, and analyzing data for water, climate, and soil management in Suriname, facilitating joint decision-making, informed policy formulation, and sustainable resource management between ministries, government agencies, and stakeholders.

This cooperation is funded, by the Makandra programme, an initiative of the 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs that is carried out by the 
Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).

The Makandra project aims to fortify the capabilities of Suriname's Department of Integrated Water Management. Through a series of activities and engagements, the project endeavors to empower Surinamese stakeholders to tackle water-related challenges effectively. 

The project has led to a clearer division of roles and responsibilities within the Directorate of Water, supported by new procedures, training, and a shared mission and vision. This vision outlines common goals and guiding principles, while an accompanying plan specifies practical steps to improve data governance, infrastructure, and the management and use of information.

The project has led to a clearer division of roles and responsibilities within the Directorate of Water, supported by new procedures, training, and a shared mission and vision. This vision outlines common goals and guiding principles, while an accompanying plan specifies practical steps to improve data governance, infrastructure, and the management and use of information.

Through the Makandra project, community driven water management has also been reinforeced. Through takeholder meetings along the Suriname River and in Sarakreek we have deepened trust and cooperation between government institutions, communities, and emergency response partners. Through joint emergency exercises, we have prepared communities and institutions to coordinate in the event of floods and water shortages.

Study visits to the Netherlands offered inspiration and hands-on lessons from Dutch water management practices, helping to connect international best practices with local implementation.