Indigenous governments in the N.W.T. sign $375M deal to protect their land

Twenty-two Indigenous governments in the Northwest Territories have come together to sign a groundbreaking funding agreement worth $375 million over the next decade. The purpose of this funding is to support conservation efforts, land stewardship, and more in the region.

The signing ceremony took place in Behchokǫ̀, where over 200 people gathered to witness this historic moment. The agreement, known as N.W.T.: Our Land for the Future, was signed by the federal and N.W.T. governments, as well as Indigenous leaders from across the Northwest Territories.

The federal government has contributed $300 million to the initiative, with an additional $75 million coming from private donors. The funds are set to be disbursed starting in mid-2025 and will continue to flow for the following 10 years.

Indigenous governments will have the flexibility to use the funds to establish new protected and conservation areas, support guardian and stewardship programs, promote eco-tourism and traditional economic activities, conduct climate research, and implement on-the-land language and culture programs.

This agreement marks one of the largest Indigenous-led conservation efforts worldwide, showcasing a collaborative approach to land management and protection. Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty emphasized the importance of respecting diversity and unique priorities within Indigenous communities when it comes to land and economic development.

Lafferty highlighted the significance of this agreement in advancing land stewardship and guardianship practices, striking a balance between economic benefits and cultural and environmental values. Dehcho Grand Chief Herb Norwegian echoed these sentiments, noting the powerful relationship being forged between Indigenous governments and the federal government through this agreement.

Norwegian emphasized the Indigenous-driven nature of this initiative, emphasizing the need to protect the spirit of the land as a living entity that requires safeguarding. He reiterated the importance of reconciling with the land and water as a crucial step towards reconciliation.

Overall, this funding agreement represents a milestone in Indigenous-led conservation efforts, setting a precedent for collaboration, stewardship, and sustainability in the Northwest Territories.