Boasting rich biodiversity along with cultural landscapes, the Machakhela Protected Landscape was established in September 2022 to foster the safeguarding, restoration and responsible use of biodiversity. Covering the area of the River Machakheli, 9 villages and part of the state forest along 4,294 hectares, the Protected Landscape serves as a vital tool for nature conservation and sustainable development of local communities. 

With funding from the Czech Government, UNDP works with the management of the Machakhela Protected Landscape to strengthen the planning capabilities of Khelvachauri Municipality and the Protected Landscape’s administration. This involves crafting management and operational plans, as well as building the necessary skills to carry out these plans effectively, affordably, and sustainably.

The initiative builds on the UNDP’s project to enhance the management of the Ajara Protected Areas, further supported by the Czech-UNDP Partnership for SDGs in 2019-2021.