The Fijian government has successfully secured $27 million from the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) to advance its Nature, People, and Climate (NPC) investment plan. This comprehensive initiative embraces a mountain-to-ocean approach, focusing on enhancing climate resilience and restoring ecosystems across vital areas such as watersheds, coastal zones, and marine environments. More than 80,000 Fijians are expected to benefit directly from this funding, highlighting a significant stride towards environmental sustainability and economic stability.
CIF CEO Tariye Gbadegesin emphasized the connection between investing in nature and ensuring a prosperous future for Fiji. He pointed out that the country’s natural environment underpins its economy, particularly in sectors like tourism, agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, which are vital for employment and GDP contributions. The NPC investment plan is designed to safeguard these critical sectors while supporting vulnerable communities, including Indigenous populations, in alignment with Fiji’s National Adaptation Plan.
Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, reiterated the government’s ambitious goal of achieving high-income status by 2050 while eradicating poverty. He underscored the importance of climate resilience in reaching these aspirations, stating that the collaboration with CIF will help protect assets and encourage sustainable growth.
Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Sivendra Michael, noted that this funding will strengthen existing policies and enhance the government’s efforts in protecting livelihoods and Fiji’s cultural heritage. He called on other donors to support this crucial initiative, recognizing the serious climate threats posed by rising sea levels and extreme weather conditions that Fiji faces.
In an innovative measure, the NPC investment plan will also allocate $4 million in grants for Indigenous Peoples and local communities to harness traditional knowledge in developing climate solutions. This approach not only emphasizes the involvement of local communities but fosters innovation in tackling climate-related challenges.
The CIF investment is part of a larger $400 million global NPC program, aimed at assisting low- and middle-income countries in implementing nature-based solutions that enhance climate resilience, promote biodiversity, and support sustainable livelihoods. Fiji’s proactive measures serve as a source of hope and inspiration, not just for its citizens but also for other nations grappling with similar climate challenges. This endeavor reflects the collective effort towards a sustainable future, advocating for the preservation of natural resources and the enhancement of community welfare amid the pressing impacts of climate change.
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