Empowering communities: International conference in Tanzania (CBA18) to explore journeys towards climate resilience
In climate change adaptation, innovation is not just a keyword; it's a lifeline for communities striving to navigate the challenges of a changing climate.
On 9 May, in Arusha, Tanzania, "Innovative Pathways: Local Solutions for Community Resilience" will spotlight community empowerment as part of the 18th International Conference on Community-Based Adaptation to Climate Change (CBA18). Focused on locally-led innovation in climate adaptation, the session will showcase global organizations and local champions' work, as supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Adaptation Fund (AF), and EIT Climate-KIC.
The CBA18 Conference serves as a dedicated platform for practitioners, policymakers, and grassroots representatives to explore innovative approaches to climate adaptation, aiming to foster climate resilience. Attendees will engage in dynamic exchanges, facilitated by insightful case studies and interactive discussions.
UNDP will share experiences gleaned from the climate change adaptation portfolio implemented by the UNDP Country Office in Tanzania; including the integration of adaptation processes into all national planning processes in Mainland and Zanzibar, facilitated through initiatives like the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) project and the Biodiversity Finance Plan (BIOFIN) project.
UNDP will also present insights from the UNDP-Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator (AFCIA) programme, which accelerates innovative adaptation practices, tools and business models at the grassroots level, supporting 44 NGOs/CSOs in 33 countries globally. The UNDP-AFCIA programme is one of the funding windows of the Adaptation Innovation Marketplace (AIM), a multi- stakeholder collaborative platform launched in 2021. AIM offers small grant investments and aggregates resources to provide local actors with the necessary support –, including enterprise development, mentoring opportunities, and access to investors and partners –, to expand and accelerate their innovative adaptation solutions.
The Adaptation Fund will highlight its expertise in funding locally-led adaptation and innovation initiatives, emphasizing the pivotal role of local decision-making in crafting innovative solutions, leveraging existing strengths, and forging partnerships to effectively tackle climate vulnerabilities.
The Adaptation Fund provides financial resources to developing countries to help them adapt to climate change. Since 2010, it has committed over US$ 1.2 billion to climate resilience projects, benefitting more than 43 million people in vulnerable communities worldwide. Notably, about half of its projects target Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The fund has also pioneered Direct Access and Enhanced Direct Access, empowering countries to access funding and implement local projects through accredited national entities.
EIT Climate-KIC, Europe's leading climate innovation agency, will present its Adaptation Innovation Cluster initiative to boost climate resilience in Tanzania's rural communities through collaboration and innovation. This initiative employs three key strategies. First, it brings together stakeholders from various sectors – —such as businesses, universities, entrepreneurs, investors, government agencies, and NGOs— – to drive climate adaptation through workshops and events that encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing. Second, it creates an enabling environment that promotes climate solutions across the country, stimulates green entrepreneurship, and supports the growth of locally-led climate solutions with programmes like ClimAccelerator and Climathon, in partnership with local organizations. Finally, it aims to empower and amplify the voices of young leaders uniquely positioned to drive impactful and innovative initiatives addressing pressing climate challenges.
During the session, participants will also explore case studies which demonstrate the tangible impact of grassroots innovation in fostering resilience at the local level and participate in interactive discussions in thematic areas. Locally led initiative Savannas Forever in Tanzania, a UNDP-AFCIA grantee, will showcase native plant initiatives driving biodiversity restoration and community empowerment.
Additionally, the Adaptation Fund’´s National Implementing Entity from Uganda will showcase their efforts for adaptation and resilience. The project features SlamDAM, a portable water-filled barrier designed to manage floods and droughts in Obongi District, utilizing data-driven risk analyses and implementing a scalable barrier system.
. Learn more: https://www.iied.org/cba18-local-solutions-inspiring-global-action