A delegation of farmer-leaders from the Pacific Farmer Organisations (PFO) is heading to Belém, Brazil, for the upcoming UN Climate Summit (COP 30) with a critical message: climate finance must be directed to farmers and frontline communities that are already grappling with the effects of climate change. This trip comes on the heels of new research indicating a significant funding gap; Pacific small-scale farmers require an estimated US$77 million annually to adapt their food systems to climate change, yet they currently receive just over 1% of that needed amount.
This stark funding shortfall poses a serious threat to the region’s food security, culture, and livelihoods. Ilisapeci Vakacegu, Programs Manager for Policy and Advocacy at PFO, highlighted the issue of accessibility to funding, stating, “The system ends up serving institutions rather than farmers.” This underscores a systemic issue that prioritizes bureaucratic requirements over the needs of the farmers who are vital to the region.
Throughout the two-week summit, the Pacific delegation will champion direct and fair finance, calling on global leaders to simplify access and channel funds directly through farmer-led mechanisms. Proposed frameworks such as the Pacific Farmer Organisations Climate Resilient Farming Framework and the Global Farmer’s Resilience and Empowerment Fund are pivotal in ensuring that resources reach where they are most needed—empowering farmers to tackle both immediate challenges and future threats.
Vakacegu further argued that supporting farmers is not merely an economic necessity but also a cultural imperative. “If farmers cannot adapt, we risk losing a part of our culture and centuries of traditional knowledge.” Given that nearly 75% of Pacific Islanders depend on agriculture and fishing, the delegation’s message is clear: empowering farmers with direct funding is essential for a resilient and food-secure Pacific.
This call to action reflects broader sentiments echoed by Pacific leaders, who emphasize the urgent need for climate finance suitable for small island nations. Recent discussions among regional leaders, including Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad, have reiterated the importance of enhancing political leadership and collective advocacy in international climate forums.
As the Pacific prepares for COP 30, the commitment to innovative, locally-driven solutions that blend traditional practices with modern technology showcases a proactive approach. This collaborative effort not only aims to secure funding but also positions the Pacific as leaders in climate resilience—demonstrating that with sufficient support, the region can navigate the pressing challenges posed by climate change effectively.
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