Fi wi Riif is an initiative born from the recognition of the vital role that the coral reefs of the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve play in the Greater Caribbean. These reefs are a biodiversity sanctuary and a climate refuge, while also making a significant contribution to the livelihoods and cultural identity of local communities and the Raizal people.
However, the health of these ecosystems and the well-being of Seaflower’s communities are under serious threat. Pollution, rising temperatures, overfishing, unsustainable coastal tourism and development, coral and sea urchin diseases, and climate change are all endangering this fragile environment.
Urgent and large-scale action is needed to ensure the survival of the Raizal people and the coral reefs that sustain their way of life.
Fi Wi Riif is an initiative designed and led by Fondo Acción, in collaboration with local organizations: Fundación Sea, Land and Culture Old Providence Initiative (Prosealand) and Fundación Providence. Activities are coordinated with the environmental authorities of the archipelago, including CORALINA (Corporación para el Desarrollo Sostenible del Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina) and Colombia’s National Natural Parks.
To protect and restore the health of the coral reefs of
San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina, while improving the livelihoods of the local communities that depend on them. Through this initiative, we contribute to the Global Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030.
An
Initiative By
Strategic Partners
Funded by
With the support of
“Colombia’s coral reefs play a crucial role in the well-being of local coastal communities and the vast interconnected marine biodiversity across the region. GFCR is committed to protecting coral reefs in Colombia, particularly in the San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina Archipelago, where reefs have the potential to withstand and recover from climate impacts.”
Yabanex Batista, Deputy Director of GFCR – United Nations Global Team, UNDP.
“Blue Action is pleased to support efforts to protect one of Colombia’s key biodiversity hotspots, home to remote coastal ethnic communities. Focused on climate resilience, the project will strengthen Fondo Acción’s leadership in creating sustainable financial solutions for Marine Protected Areas, while ensuring a human-centered approach with strong environmental and social safeguards.”
Markus Knigge, Executive Director, Blue Action Fund.
“This initiative is a firm step toward the full realization and sustainability of the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve and the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina, along with its people and culture.”
Germán Márquez, Director of the Sea Land & Culture Old Providence Initiative Foundation.