In July, the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub (CCFAH) hosted a two-day workshop on project design and resource mobilisation in Male, Maldives.
The training event brought together 22 key stakeholders, including government officials, private sector, civil society, and NGOs, to unpack the pressing challenges of climate adaptation and consider how to build capacity in developing climate project proposals.
The workshop had a clear objective: to share skills and impart the knowledge necessary to effectively mobilise resources for climate adaptation projects. Participants delved into critical areas such as climate risk assessments, resource mobilisation strategies, project design principles, and economic and financial analysis. The sessions were not only informative but also highly interactive, encouraging participants to share their experiences and insights.
One of the key highlights was the emphasis on integrating gender and youth considerations into project frameworks. This approach ensures that climate projects are inclusive and equitable, addressing the needs of all community members and fostering broader societal benefits.
Fathimath Liusha Nasheed, Senior Political Director of the Ministry of Social & Family Development, said:
“Gender mainstreaming across all sectors, including climate action, is a key priority for us, and I believe there is significant potential for progress in the Maldives. I appreciate that your session highlighted this crucial issue and underscored that gender mainstreaming is a collective responsibility.”
Uzoamaka Nwamarah, Adviser - Climate Change at the Commonwealth Secretariat, added:
“The responsibility for gender and youth mainstreaming is a shared journey, not confined to one Ministry, but it is a collaborative effort that demands engagement and action from all sectors of society."
The island nation has made great strides in their own climate adaptation work. The Secretariat’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) programme has been instrumental in supporting member countries, including Maldives, in their climate action efforts, including identifying viable projects, preparing investment-ready proposals, and engaging with potential financiers. This pipeline approach ensures that projects are not only well-designed but also financially sustainable and impactful.
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Through a co-financing approach between the Commonwealth Secretariat and the NDC Partnership, Maldives has received support to develop a climate adaptation investment pipeline. CCFAH is providing further technical assistance to enhance the country's ability to draft compelling climate finance proposals and conduct feasibility assessments, paving the way for successful project implementation and bridging the country’s climate finance gap.
Thibyan Ibrahim, Assistant Director of the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy of the Republic of Maldives, said:
“Project design is an important area to build capacity amongst Maldivian stakeholders especially as national needs grow considering increasing climate impacts. The resources and sessions of the workshop will assist Maldivian stakeholders to better understand the dynamics and nuances of climate projects.”
The workshop was also strategically timed to align with the NDC revision cycle, providing participants the opportunity to incorporate new learnings into their ongoing NDC updates. This alignment ensures that the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop will have an immediate and direct impact on strengthening Maldives' climate action plans.
As the workshop ended, there was a palpable sense of optimism and determination. The participants reported that they are now equipped with new skills and knowledge and feel ready to tackle the challenges of climate adaptation head-on. The Secretariat remains a steadfast partner committed to supporting Maldives and other member countries in building a sustainable and resilient future.
