MODOU SARR
The Gambia is holding a three day International Conference on Carbon markets and Climate Finance. The participants were drawn from 16 countries including Senegal, Ghana, Nigeria, Guinea Bissau etc.
Honourable Rohey John Manjang Gambia’s Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources in her opening remarks said, the Gambia is honored to host this very important meeting of West African Carbon markets and Climate Finance and capacity building workshop. This is a proof of our shared commitment of advancing climate action across West Africa.
West Africa, Minister John Manjang went on, stands at a crossroads forming the green impacts of climate change while holding immense potential to lead in climate solutions. From coastal erosion to drought and floods, our countries were in the forefront yet we contribute the least in global emissions. This imbalance, she added is unfortunate and should motivate our collaborative effort in in the national negotiations and also interest building towards solutions. She urged the participants to acknowledge the pressing challenge of climate finance that requires us to be constructive and united to have a resilient and sustainable solution climate change . This carbon markets and climate finance resources are no longer optional but essential instrument in achieving climate justice and economic transformation.
Speaking earlier, Mr Ousman Sarr Coordinator of the West African Carbon Markets and Climate Finance stated that the conference is setting a tone of ambition, resilience and forward looking vision for the entire region. He pointed out that the perception of carbon markets is growing beyond the region while highlighting the successes registered like the strengthening of regional coordination in West Africa and continuous support to national focal point among others.
The meeting is expected to conclude on Wednesday with a capacity building workshop.
