Commonwealth Announces New Chair for Iwokrama Rainforest Programme

Edward Glover is the new Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Iwokrama International Rain Forest Programme.

Mr Glover, a former British High Commissioner to Guyana, takes up his post immediately.

Welcoming his appointment, the Secretary-General said: "I am delighted that we will be able to benefit from Mr Glover's experience and expertise in his new role. I am sure that the Iwokrama Programme will be the better for it."

The Iwokrama Programme, now in its tenth year, was established by the Government of Guyana and the Commonwealth. It was designed to help protect tropical rainforests, show best practice in forest management, and promote conservation and sustainable development. Its most ambitious project to date is to establish an ecologically and economically sound timber harvesting business that is socially responsible.

Eco-tourism is an important aspect of the Iwokrama Programme, which has developed substantial built infrastructure within the Iwokrama forest. This includes a field station, canopy walkway, a ranger station and satellite stations. These facilities are now managed by rangers and other staff who have been trained through its own programmes and the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Co-operation. Iwokrama has also begun developing businesses involving tourism, aquarium fish, crabwood oil, honey, natural products, training, and information.

"I am delighted and honoured to be the new Chairman of Iwokrama's Board of Trustees. I have always admired and supported Iwokrama's aims and will do my best to fulfil the confidence shown in me," said Mr Glover.

Key Links:

• Environmentally Sustainable Development