Earth Today | Jamaica readies for GCF structured dialogue
Published:Wednesday | June 7, 2017 | 12:00 AMPetre Williams-Raynor
AS IT looks to shore up its climate finance options, Jamaica is to join its Caribbean counterparts at the Green Climate Fund's (GCF's) structured dialogue set for Belize later this month.
"Apart from achieving the full objectives of the agenda, we want a clear indication of when we can commence actions under our readiness grant, approved to strengthen the capacity of the Climate Change Division to undertake its role as national designated authority," said head of the division, Una May Gordon.
Roadmap
"We also want a clear road map on the processes involved in accessing GCF financing and some detail as to what may be eligible for financing," she told The Gleaner.
The GCF, for its part, has noted its own intention to have the dialogue to be held in Placenia between June 19 and 22 "increase the involvement of Caribbean countries with the GCF".
"The four-day gathering will provide an opportunity for countries and accredited entities to share their experiences in engaging with the fund across key areas," it said in an article published on its website.
Focus
"A significant focus will be developing a road map for countries in the region by identifying project opportunities in partnership with accredited entities, as well as mapping readiness and project preparation support needs that the GCF can provide," the fund added.
Gordon, meanwhile, said the readiness grant applied for some two years ago augurs well for Jamaica.
"That grant will enhance our efforts to fast-track the development of the country programme and finance strategy for the engagement with the fund and other financial mechanisms," she noted.
In addition to non-disclosue agreements and focal points such as the Climate Change Division, the meeting is to see the participation of ministers of government from across the region, accredited entities, readiness delivery partners, civil society organisations, and private-sector representatives, together with GCF board members and secretariat staff.