CSNR

In 1998, the Central Suriname Nature Reserve (CSNR) was established by connecting the Raleigh Falls, Tafelberg, and Eilerts de Haan nature reserves, covering an area of ​​approximately 1.6 million hectares. This expansion increased Suriname's protected area from 3% to 13%.

As one of the largest nature reserves in Latin America, the Central Suriname Nature Reserve (CSNR) was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. This was due to its vast, pristine state, uninhabited and hunting-free areas, diverse ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and healthy, intact forests. Regular monitoring and the immediate reporting of illegal activities are essential for the conservation of this crucial area.

The Kwinti people have long served as protectors of the CSNR and possess deep knowledge of the area. They live in the villages of Witagron and Kaaimanston along the Coppename River and depend on the ecosystem services the CSNR provides for their livelihood. 

However, the community faces increasing threats from illegal logging, mining and large-scale agricultural projects, increasing the urgency to protect both their land and the CSNR.