Santo Domingo.- The Sur Futuro Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and local organizations in Pedernales, played a key role in preparations to ensure exceptional hospitality for visitors during the arrival of the second cruise at the port of Cabo Rojo.
This endeavor holds immense significance for Sur Futuro as it represents an opportunity to uplift the living standards of a region that has long endured poverty and neglect. The arrival of Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship, carrying 2,666 visitors and 874 crew members, illuminated prospects of progress and prosperity for Pedernales and the Enriquillo region.
Tourists were treated to an array of eco-friendly and artisanal destinations, promoting sustainable tourism in the area. Over 250 individuals, including tour guides, musical bands, folkloric ensembles, baton twirlers, and carnival performers, actively participated in activities organized by MITUR and Sur Futuro. These events offered visitors insights into the cultural and environmental richness of Pedernales, Juancho, La Colonia, Barahona, Bahoruco, and Cabral.
Sur Futuro also undertook the responsibility of enhancing facilities at the Pedernales Sociocultural Club. This included restroom renovations, door and lock repairs, painting, installation of new water connections, and placement of trash bins along Duarte Avenue. Additionally, municipal bathrooms along the boardwalk were cleaned and refurbished, thereby enhancing local infrastructure for the benefit of both the community and tourists.
Moving forward, Sur Futuro, in collaboration with various stakeholders such as the Ministry of Tourism, the Directorate of Public-Private Alliances, the ITM Foundation, and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Mypimes, will continue to focus on educational and training programs in tourist culture for the local community. Moreover, efforts will be made towards watershed restoration to ensure sustainable water sources, aligning with the region’s development goals.
These programs will engage artists, folklorists, schools, artisans, and tourist guides, imparting valuable life skills and promoting climate change adaptation. Ultimately, the aim is to enrich the cultural and tourist offerings of the region, fostering its growth and resilience.