The Ecuadorian government has signed an agreement involving the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MAE), Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC EP), and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) to support the full restoration of Los Samanes National Recreation Area. This urban natural area is considered one of the most important in the country.
Under this agreement, CELEC EP will provide $800,000 through its Transelectric business unit. The MIT will manage and execute these funds, while MAE will lead technical oversight, environmental assessment, and prioritization of interventions to ensure compliance with conservation objectives and current regulations.
The project will be implemented in two phases. The first phase includes a preliminary technical study to assess the current state of the protected area. The second phase will focus on specific ecological restoration activities aimed at recovering key ecosystems and environmental services in sensitive zones within the park.
Modern approaches such as green and blue infrastructure, ecological connectivity, ecosystem service recovery, and climate change adaptation are part of the planned interventions. These efforts aim to position Los Samanes as a national example of sustainable management, ecological resilience, and improved quality of life in an urban setting.
Since being declared a protected area in 2010, Los Samanes has faced challenges due to its location amid ongoing urban growth. In October 2023, an executive decree transferred administration to Guayaquil’s municipal government; however, their management plan was not approved by MAE because it did not meet environmental standards.
In September 2025, a new cooperation agreement was signed between MAE and Guayaquil’s municipal government for shared management responsibilities. This established coordination mechanisms intended to strengthen technical administration and ensure both conservation goals and harmonious coexistence between nature and city life.
According to the statement: “With this tripartite agreement, the National Government is committed to technical, responsible, long-term environmental solutions that turn challenges facing Los Samanes Park into real opportunities for conservation, ecological regeneration, and well-being for thousands of families in Guayaquil.”
“The New Ecuador moves forward with firm decisions, responsible investment and a clear vision: protecting nature is protecting life, health and the future of present and future generations,” officials said.
