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Seacology Honour Shines Spotlight on Kalinago Environmental Stewardship, Says Chief Sanford
From our correspondent
Roseau, Dominica – October 26 2026 — Kalinago Chief Anette Sanford believes her selection for the 2026 Seacology Award brings international attention to years of environmental conservation and advocacy undertaken by the Kalinago people. Speaking with News Editor Richie Ferrol on October 23, Sanford explained that her work began at the community level through Kibe Kuati Inc., a non-governmental organisation she helped engage in initiatives to safeguard underground water sources and promote tree planting. Her responsibilities as Kalinago Chief subsequently expanded her involvement, requiring her to defend the community’s interests while championing environmental protection and Indigenous rights.
Among the experiences that shaped her leadership was the controversy surrounding Des Moines, where Sanford said she became increasingly concerned about the limited public response to the challenges facing the community. Although several leaders had privately approached her about the situation, she noted that few were prepared to speak out. The Kalinago Council eventually decided to make its position public, visit the site and raise concerns directly. Chief Sanford recalled that the effort later attracted support from the Brisbanes, Gary and other community members, strengthening the collective response. She said the experience reinforced the importance of Indigenous leaders confronting injustice rather than relying on others to speak on their behalf.
Sanford views the Seacology recognition as an opportunity to acknowledge the environmental knowledge and conservation practices maintained by Indigenous communities across the world. She noted that researchers have visited the Kalinago Territory to examine the traditional practices that help sustain its forests, soil quality and biodiversity. Despite the interest in learning from these communities, she believes their contribution has often received insufficient recognition. The award, she explained, offers an opportunity to highlight how Kalinago traditions and environmental stewardship have helped protect natural resources while preserving knowledge passed down through generations.
Looking ahead, Chief Sanford hopes the international honour will generate greater support for development within the Kalinago Territory and create opportunities for the community to build on its conservation achievements. While acknowledging that improvements are still needed, she believes recognition of the Kalinago people’s contribution should encourage decision-makers and international partners to pay greater attention to their needs and priorities. She also hopes the achievement will strengthen efforts to preserve Indigenous identity and revive cultural traditions, while inspiring younger Kalinago to continue protecting their ancestral environment. For Sanford, the award is not simply a personal distinction, but an opportunity to ensure the community’s contributions to Dominica and global conservation receive greater appreciation.
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