On May 1, the Local Economic Development Project (LEDP) presented the preliminary findings of the study on the Economic Potential of Kolkheti National Park and Its Surrounding Areas. The event brought together representatives from local municipalities, the private sector, the Kolkheti National Park Administration, and both international and local organizations.
The event was opened by Gvantsa Iremashvili, Deputy Team Leader of LEDP. The study’s key findings were presented by Natalia Bakhtadze-Englender, Head of the Georgian Ecotourism Association, and Zura Gamtenadze, LEDP’s Component Manager.
“Kolkheti National Park and its surrounding areas offer a unique opportunity both for protecting natural heritage and for developing local tourism. On one hand, the park is a UNESCO-recognized protected area; on the other, it spans six municipalities, creating a space for inter-municipal cooperation,” said Zura Gamtenadze.
The study, conducted from January 2024 to May 2025 by the Georgian Ecotourism Association (GEA), aimed to assess the potential for ecotourism development in Kolkheti National Park and its adjacent regions. The geographic scope of the study included both the park’s protected zones and its buffer areas, covering the municipalities of Poti, Senaki, Zugdidi, Khobi, Abasha, and Lanchkhuti.
Key components of the study included:
- Analysis of existing infrastructure and tourism services;
- Assessment of tourism product supply and market demand;
- Evaluation of opportunities for engagement of local communities, youth, and women.
The study identified several major challenges: fragmented tourism services, insufficient infrastructure, low international visibility, and the absence of a structured guide training system.
Despite these challenges, the study concluded that the region holds strong potential for ecotourism development. To unlock this potential, a consistent, inclusive, and environmentally-focused approach is essential. Special emphasis must be placed on inter-municipal coordination and strengthening joint efforts.
“Cooperation among municipalities surrounding Kolkheti National Park is crucial. Such collaboration will help develop tourism, increase visitor numbers, and contribute to local economic growth,” said Ekaterine Chubinashvili, Director of the Lanchkhuti Tourism Promotion Center.
Strategic recommendations from the study include:
- Development of infrastructure that connects ecotourism routes;
- Support for local products;
- Strengthening digital marketing;
- Promoting public-private-community partnerships.
The Local Economic Development Project (LEDP) continues its work to promote inclusive and sustainable regional development. The project supports municipalities in building their capacities, identifying and implementing economic initiatives, ultimately benefitting local communities.
The project is implemented by a consortium of HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation and WINS Global Consult, with financial support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
