By Joke Kujenya
MILLIONS OF people worldwide are grappling with the escalating effects of climate change, from deadly floods to relentless droughts.
This disclosure was made by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) at the COP29 climate summit where the agency unveiled a series of ambitious projects aimed at tackling these challenges and safeguarding the planet’s most vulnerable communities.
One of the standouts move of the USAID’s was the announcement of $53.7 million to drive private financing into underfunded regions like Colombia and Cambodia.
The goal is to strengthen local businesses and financial institutions while fostering resilience to climate shocks, the agency stated.
Flood warnings have become a lifeline for millions.
The USAID disclosed that since 2022, it has poured $83 million into the Early Warning for All initiative under the PREPARE programme.
This funding has expanded flood and flash flood alert systems in over 30 countries, saving lives in high-risk areas.
Communities at the frontline of climate-related disasters will also benefit from the Climate Smart and Disaster Ready programme.
USAID also said it committed $11.8 million to introduce adaptable solutions in regions such as West Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands, bringing the programme’s total funding to $16.2 million.
Transitioning Green Energy Across Asia
Across Asia, the USAID said efforts to transition to green energy are taking shape.
In India, a United State (U.S.)-backed initiative aims to lower carbon emissions and energy costs amid intensifying heatwaves.
In Indonesia, USAID said it is supporting the early retirement of a coal-fired power plant under the Just Energy Transition Partnership.
Similarly, Vietnam’s newly approved Direct Power Purchase Agreement will enable businesses to shift to 100% renewable energy for the first time.
In Central America, a new SERVIR Hub, funded with $6.6 million, will launch in December.
Also, a joint initiative between USAID and NASA, the hub will use satellite technology to help communities manage climate risks such as droughts and wildfires.
Boosting Clean Energy in Africa
In Africa, USAID’s Power Africa programme is boosting clean energy access and industrialization.
With $10 million in collaboration with Nordic nations, this initiative aims to improve value chains for critical minerals and green energy technologies.
Women are also being positioned as central to climate solutions.
USAID said it pledged $10.8 million to empower women in climate leadership roles, from decision-making to economic development.
Since 2021, the USAID’s EDGE Fund has also mobilized over $30 billion in climate finance.
This year, it added $9.25 million to support investment funds targeting natural climate solutions, coastal conservation, and sustainable agriculture.
In Colombia, a $27.7 million project aims to drive climate investments, while Southeast Asia will benefit from $6.2 million for green initiatives.
It said that Africa will see $9.3 million directed toward sustainable agriculture and food systems, alongside $1.2 million for marine conservation efforts, including de-risking blue economy investments.
The USAID said these measures reflect its strategy of combining public funds with private expertise to address climate threats.
It adds that by targeting the world’s most at-risk regions and fostering innovative solutions, it hopes to build a more sustainable and equitable future.
