Related topics: Germany, Happy Dolphins, Janna Krenz, Katrin Werdemann, Patricia Hiraldo, Punta Cana, Samaná, Sosúa Cabarete
August 1, 2024
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The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Santo Domingo and the non-profit foundation, Happy Dolphins of Cabarete signed a strategic collaboration agreement with a view to creating safer destinations and at the same time elevating coastal communities in three important tourist centers through the initiative called Saving Lives, a training of young people as lifeguards and swimming coaches in Samaná, Punta Cana, Sosúa-Cabaretewhich also aims to create new sources of decent work.
By training 70 young people in lifeguarding and swimming, the aim is to reduce water accidents and drownings. The microproject initiative consists of direct, dynamic and informal financial support that the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany provides to these young people through its embassy to cover the basic needs of those who are at a low socioeconomic level and thus improve their living conditions.
The agreement was signed at the headquarters of the German embassy in Santo Domingo, by Katrin WerdemannDeputy Head of Mission; Janna KrenzEconomics and Economics Attaché Patricia Hiraldofounding member of Happy Dolphins, representing the association.
“This is a highly significant effort for the communities where the training will take place. We hope that this is the beginning of a strong alliance to create safe destinations, more empowered communities, and a new culture of vital lifesaving on our island,” said Hiraldo.
“We have certified more than 100 young people in different parts of the country, with the aim of drastically reducing the statistics of drownings at a national level; considering that we are an island whose economy is based mainly on tourism and it is alarming that approximately 8 out of 10 Dominicans do not know how to swim. Hopefully this action will serve as inspiration for other entities,” he added.
She also expressed her eternal gratitude to Maike Friedrichsen, who is the current Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany in the country, for supporting the initiative.
