UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities and exclusion, and build resilience so countries can sustain progress. UNDP plays a critical role in helping countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), otherwise known as the Global Goals, are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
In line with the UN SDGs, the UNDP has started a project with the Government of Norway; “Improving the management and operation system of the new Aqaba Marine Reserve” to support Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) future plans for Aqaba Marine Reserve in addition to further support through European Union fund in collaboration with ASEZA. The objectives are planned to be achieved through (i) demarcation of the official boundaries of the reserve, (ii) improving the reserve management facilities, (iii) establishing a dedicated database system, (iv) designing a monitoring program/protocol, (v) the provision of signage system, (vi) preparing and implementing relevant capacity development strategies and (vii) implementing awareness and outreach program.
The project goes in line with the government plans, where in June 2020, His Majesty King Abdulla II authorized the Government of Jordan to declare the Aqaba Marine Reserve as a National Marine Protected Area in recognition of the importance of its coral reef ecosystems, which are among the most diverse in the world. These ecosystems face many threats to their survival, not least of which is the impact of climate change. The Reserve is situated just offshore from the Aqaba coastline and covers an area of 2.8 Km2. It was established to protect a representative example of Red Sea coral-reef ecosystems, which are among the most diverse in the world and are showing resilience to the impacts of climate change.
UNDP under this project will be seeking a qualified engineering construction company to implement the construction works in accordance with the designs under the supervision of engineering consultancy firm (to be hired) and the UNDP and end-user engineering teams.
