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Minister David Songulashvili Congratulates Rangers on World Ranger Day
Nearly 500 rangers are employed across 25 administrative units of Georgia's protected areas, safeguarding a total of 1,066,175 hectares of the country's most valuable natural landscapes.
A ceremony marking World Ranger Day was organised by the Agency of Protected Areas of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture at Kvabiskhevi, within Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. Rangers received professional holiday greetings from the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, and the Chairman of the Agency of Protected Areas, Mr Otar Edisherashvili.
"Today, Georgia's protected areas cover nearly 15 per cent of the country's territory. This figure clearly reflects the state's commitment to preserving our natural heritage and biodiversity. Our objective is to ensure the effective management of Georgia's 112 protected areas across six different protection categories, equip them with modern technologies, and promote the ranger profession among future generations. I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the more than 500 rangers serving our country and express my sincere gratitude for their unwavering dedication to protecting Georgia's unique natural environment," said Minister Songulashvili.
As part of the traditional World Ranger Day ceremony, rangers were recognised for exemplary service, outstanding professional achievements, and their significant contribution to nature conservation. Certificates and commemorative gifts were presented to the award recipients. Participants also paid tribute to rangers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty.
The event was attended by the Deputies of the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, the Minister of Agriculture and Environmental Protection of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, Mr Denis Salukvadze, Members of the Parliament of Georgia, representatives of local self-government bodies, and officials from agencies operating within the Ministry system.