On April 5, 2024, a significant step was taken in the field of marine conservation in Montenegro with the signing of the partnership agreement between The Medfund and the Stari Ulcinj MPA. This MPA, the third declared in the country in February 2022, will benefit from maximum financial support of USD 287,000 over a period of 5 years as part of the GEF7 “Build back a blue and stronger Mediterranean” project.
Managed by the Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management of Montenegro, the Stari Ulcinj MPA extends over an area of 9.29 km² and is home to a diversity of species marine species, including posidonia, coralligenous and Axinella c., facing various pressures such as anchoring and illegal fishing.
Medfund, demonstrating its commitment to marine conservation in the region, 100% supports Montenegro’s marine protected areas. This collaboration is a continuation of the work already started with the same manager on other sites.
The financial and technical commitment of Medfund will allow the establishment of a team dedicated to the management of the site, raising awareness among visitors and local populations, continuous monitoring, scientific monitoring of ecosystems and the implementation of a participatory governance, including fishermen.
This new initiative marks a major step forward in the protection of Montenegrin marine ecosystems and illustrates the importance of public-private partnerships in preserving our precious natural heritage.
