By: Goshu Melisew
The Ministry of Planning and Development has announced that Ethiopia is making significant strides toward meeting its climate action commitments. The statement was made during a review of the ministry's six-month performance, focusing on the implementation of initiatives supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global Environmental Facility (GEF).
The review highlights Ethiopia's dedication to addressing climate challenges through strategic planning and the effective utilization of international climate funds. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to fostering environmental sustainability and building climate resilience in line with global climate goals.
State Minister of Planning and Development, Seyoum Mekonnen, emphasized that Ethiopia is on the right path in its commitment to combating climate change.
Speaking on the occasion, Seyoum remarked the global challenge posed by climate shocks, which continue to devastate millions of lives worldwide in the 21st century.
Ethiopia has implemented various policies and strategies to address and mitigate climate change, Seyoum noted.
The country is currently executing 14 climate-related projects with a total outlay of over $260 million. Additionally, 21 approved projects are in the pipeline, ready to be launched. These efforts aim to build a resilient environment and communities that can better adapt to climate change.
However, Seyoum stressed that achieving effective results requires significant climate finance.
He pointed out that transparency, regular reporting, and ensuring funds are spent for their intended purposes are critical to securing and maintaining climate funds.
The State Minister also reiterated Ethiopia’s proactive steps, such as the approval of the Green Legacy Fund by the Ethiopian parliament, showcasing the country’s unwavering commitment to tackling climate challenges.
Seyoum further mentioned that efforts are underway to engage various sectors in the fight against climate change.
At the recent COP29 Summit in Baku, $300 billion was pledged globally to support nations in achieving their climate action goals.
Ethiopia’s ability to tap into such funds will be instrumental in driving its climate resilience initiatives forward.
This highlights Ethiopia’s determination to lead by example in addressing one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, he pointed out.