THE Samoa CARES project aims to support communities to strengthen resilience to climate change through environmental protection and sustainable livelihoods.
Fourteen new community projects have been announced under the initiative, ranging from solar lighting and biogas systems to freshwater pool restoration, improved water management, and sustainable fisheries and agriculture.
It is supported by the United Nations Development Programme’s Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme, in partnership with the Australian High Commission and Samoa’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
Australian High Commissioner Will Robinson said inclusive climate action is critical, particularly for groups that often feel the impacts of climate change first.
“We know that climate change does not affect everyone equally. Women, people with disabilities, older persons, and youth often experience its impact first and most severely. These groups also have deep knowledge, skills, and leadership that, when included from the beginning, make our communities safer and more innovative,” he said.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for the Multi Country Office covering the Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, and Tokelau, Paolo Dalla Stella, said the grants would strengthen vulnerable communities and support the wider economy.
“I am pleased to note that these financial grants will play a vital role in delivering much-needed support to our most fragile and vulnerable communities, while also making an important contribution to strengthening the Samoan economy,” he said.
Grant award ceremonies were held in Upolu and Savai’i.
The ceremonies also featured Samoa CARES Gender, Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) workshops, bringing together grantees to strengthen awareness of GEDSI principles and share approaches for inclusive participation in climate adaptation projects.
Source: Samoa Observer
