Honduran Wildlife Protected with TİKA’s Support

Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) provided essential equipment to the Honduran National Institute of Forest Conservation and Development, Protected Areas and Wildlife (ICF) as part of the ‘Forest Pest Management Program’.

In 2013, Honduras faced a devastating outbreak of the Dendroctonus frontalis bark beetle, which spread rapidly and inflicted severe damage on the country’s pine forests. Due to prolonged drought, the infestation is estimated to have destroyed a quarter of Honduras’ pine forests. In response to this environmental crisis, Honduran authorities sought TİKA’s support in 2016 to combat the threat effectively.

Biological control with the Ömer Halisdemir Laboratory

In 2017, TİKA established the first biological control laboratory in Central America at the ICF in Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. Named after July 15^th martyr Ömer Halisdemir, the laboratory began producing a predatory insect species capable of combating the pine bark beetle infestation, which had severely damaged the country’s forests. By releasing these natural predators into the forest, a chemical-free pest control method was developed, helping to protect the ecosystem while effectively managing the infestation. This approach initially yielded positive results. However, unfavorable conditions during the pandemic led to a resurgence of forest pests.

Drone-assisted fight against forest pests

When Honduran authorities once again requested support, TİKA provided comprehensive assistance to enhance the fight against forest pests. In December 2024, the ICF Ömer Halisdemir Laboratory received advanced technological equipment, including drones (UAVs), chainsaws, insect traps, bark peelers, and test tubes for forest inspection and pest control.

Gratitude to Türkiye and TİKA

The equipment was delivered during a ceremony attended by TİKA experts, Honduran officials, and ICF employees. In her speech, Annya Melissa Chavez, Director of the National Institute of Forest Conservation and Development and Wildlife of Honduras, expressed her deep gratitude for Türkiye’s long-standing support. She emphasized that the technical equipment provided by Türkiye would have a significant long-term impact on forest conservation.

Following the ceremony, ICF officials gave a presentation to TİKA experts, highlighting the crucial role of TİKA’s support in combating forest pests. They also expressed their willingness to continue exchanging knowledge with Türkiye and strengthen future cooperation.