Two impactful projects were unveiled yesterday at Novotel in Lami as part of the KIWA Initiative, with a significant funding of over €6.6 million (approximately $F15.7 million). These initiatives are set to benefit more than 70 communities across five Pacific Island nations, namely Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Samoa, and Timor-Leste.
Virginie Bleitrach, the regional director for Pacific at Agence Francaise de Development (AFD), noted that these new projects complement the ongoing efforts of the KIWA Initiative, which was launched in 2020. “The new projects are a continuation of our commitment to enhancing climate adaptation in the region, alongside the seven projects previously initiated on a broader scale,” Ms. Bleitrach stated.
The KIWA Initiative is committed to supporting local communities in the Pacific to combat climate change by providing better adaptation strategies. Since its inception with a budget of €30 million (about $F71.5 million), the initiative’s funding has increased to €77 million (around $F183.6 million), reflecting the dedication to climate adaptation efforts.
Ms. Bleitrach emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, which is backed by five donor nations—France, the European Union, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada—working in concert with regional organizations. Currently, two-thirds of the budget is already allocated, and regular meetings are held to discuss ongoing projects and the identification of new ones, ensuring a proactive approach toward climate challenges.
The KIWA Initiative aims to enhance the resilience of Pacific Island ecosystems, communities, and economies through innovative nature-based solutions, fostering a hopeful outlook for sustainable development in the region.
This latest launch signifies a critical step forward in empowering communities to adapt and thrive in the face of climate change, underscoring the importance of continued support and collaboration in addressing global environmental challenges.
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