The Ecuadorian government has announced a new agreement focused on restoring the Los Samanes National Recreation Area, an important urban natural space in the country. The initiative involves cooperation between the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MAE), Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC EP), and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT).
Under this agreement, CELEC EP will contribute $800,000 through its Transelectric business unit to fund restoration efforts. The MIT will manage and execute these resources, while MAE will oversee technical guidance, environmental assessment, and prioritization of interventions to ensure compliance with current regulations and conservation objectives.
The restoration project is structured in two phases. The first phase involves conducting a technical study to assess the current state of the protected area. In the second phase, specific ecological restoration activities will be carried out to recover ecosystems and essential environmental services in sensitive zones within the park.
Restoration plans include modern approaches such as green and blue infrastructure, ecological connectivity, ecosystem service recovery, and climate change adaptation. These measures aim to establish Los Samanes as a national model for sustainable management and urban ecological resilience.
Since its designation as a protected area in 2010, Los Samanes has faced challenges due to ongoing urban development nearby. In October 2023, an executive decree transferred administration of the area to Guayaquil’s municipal government; however, its management plan was not approved by MAE because it did not meet environmental standards.
In September 2025, MAE signed a cooperation agreement with Guayaquil’s local government for shared management responsibilities intended to strengthen technical oversight and ensure responsible stewardship of the park.
According to officials: “With this tripartite agreement, the National Government is committed to technical, responsible and long-term environmental solutions that turn Los Samanes Park’s challenges into real opportunities for conservation, ecological regeneration and well-being for thousands of Guayaquil families.”
“The New Ecuador advances with firm decisions, responsible investment and a clear vision: protecting nature is protecting life, health and the future of present and future generations,” authorities stated.
