US provides $15.8 million funding to CARICOM, aims to build climate resilience 

CARICOM has received US$15.8 million in funding from the United States to address climate change and biodiversity issues in the Caribbean nation.  The funding was part of US$43 million in USAID funding for climate adaptation and resilience.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas led a US delegation to the ongoing 46th Regular Meeting of Leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Guyana. He said the new funds will help safeguard marine biodiversity and support nations in building climate resilience.

USAID revealed that the organization will provide a sum of US$5.8 million to combat the negative impacts of climate change. This project will strengthen the United States’ ties with the Caribbean.

The program emphasizes the conservation of endangered species and ecosystems such as coral reefs and mangroves, and it will also focus on the conservation of marine life creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, rays and many others.

The work will also encourage the well-being and development of local communities, including women, youth, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ, and indigenous peoples. Furthermore, the USAID Administrator Power has also announced US$6.1 million of funding for the new Caribbean Resilient Economies and Sectors (RESET) program.

It will reduce public and private finance barriers to build climate and disaster resilience in critical situations. They will initiate the adoption of climate-smart practices in critical sectors. 

Moreover, Washington is also providing US$10 million in funding to strengthen water security in Haiti. 

This will help the institution plan for providing safe and reliable drinking water services during and after the climate crisis, health pandemics, and civil unrest. As per sources, approximately one million Haitians have access to climate-resilient safe water sources. 

The second project includes US$608,000 for climate resilience and renewable energy investment firm Deetken Impact, aiming to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises. The focus is to take females forward and encourage women entrepreneurs.