Two significant projects under the KIWA Initiative were inaugurated at the Novotel in Lami yesterday, with a total investment exceeding €6.6 million (around FJD 15.7 million). These initiatives are set to benefit over 70 communities across five Pacific Island nations, which include Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Samoa, and Timor-Leste.
Virginie Bleitrach, the regional director for Agence Française de Développement (AFD), highlighted that these projects form part of the expanding KIWA Initiative that began in 2020. She noted, “These two projects join seven others already underway on a regional scale, and we currently have about 20 additional projects at the local level within the Pacific’s three subregions, including Fiji, along with similar initiatives in African and Caribbean nations and French territories.”
The primary goal of the KIWA Initiative is to assist local communities in the Pacific in adapting to climate change by implementing effective, nature-based solutions. Originally funded with a budget of €30 million (approximately FJD 71.5 million), the initiative has now increased its funding to €77 million (around FJD 183.6 million) as a commitment to enhancing climate adaptation efforts for the residents of the Pacific region.
Ms. Bleitrach mentioned that the initiative is supported by five key donors: France, the European Union, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada, all collaborating with regional organizations throughout the Pacific. She stated, “Currently, two-thirds of our budget has been allocated, allowing us to frequently meet and discuss ongoing projects while identifying new initiatives.” The projects launched recently are the latest additions chosen under this collaborative effort.
The KIWA Initiative represents a proactive and collaborative approach to building resilience against climate change in Pacific Island ecosystems, communities, and economies through innovative, nature-based solutions. This collaborative effort not only addresses immediate environmental challenges but also fosters long-term sustainability and support for vulnerable communities.
In summary, the launch of these new projects under the KIWA Initiative signifies a hopeful step towards enhancing climate resilience in the Pacific, reinforcing the commitment of multiple nations to support local efforts in adapting to the changing environment.
Leave a comment