12th June, 2018 The Tonga Green Climate Fund Readiness and Preparatory Support Programme (GCF-RPSP) Management Unit under the Department of Climate Change, (MEIDECC) alongside the Joint National Action Plan (JNAP) Task Force delivered a whole day consultation with key stakeholders in Ha’apai in their bid to raise awareness of the Fund and strengthen capacity to access the Fund.
The training with the Government Ministries, N.G.O’s and Private Sectors took place at the Red Cross Evacuation Hall in Pangai, Ha’apai. Dr. Tevita Mohenoa Puloka, who is the Governor of Ha’apai delivered the welcoming remarks where he highlighted the important issues faced by the Ha’apai islands due to the effects of climate change. The Principal Climate Finance Analyst, Mr. Talolakepa Fulivai, under the Department of Climate Change delivered a note of thanks prior the training commenced.
Dr Netatua Pelesikoti-Taufatofua began the training with an introduction to GCF and its objectives, roles of the National Designated Authority (N.D.A), and the No-Objection Procedure. The second part of the training revolved around discussions of the preparations for the GCF Country Programme of Tonga, introduction and group discussions pertaining to the objectives, sub-objectives and key activities of JNAP II which was approved by the Tonga Cabinet in May 28th 2018. The presence of the JNAP Taskforce played a pivotal part in the discussion of the JNAP II objectives, sub-objectives and key activities of the JNAP II with representatives present at the training.
The national stakeholder consultations and awareness programs is one of many which has taken place since the beginning of this year. The GCF-RPSP Unit has conducted training with the National Designated Authority (N.D.A) JNAP Taskforce, Non-Government Organizations (N.G.O) & Private Sector, Ports Authority Tonga and Department of Energy before setting its sight on the outer islands. The team is currently working in Ha’apai with national stakeholders before moving to Vava’u for further consultations with the same objective on Friday 15th June 2018.
The training was a success with the GCF-RPSP aims to establish processes in which will enable Tonga to access GCF funding faster while maintaining country ownership. It is also working towards strengthening potential partners in their capacity, preparedness and support to accessing finance through Green Climate Fund. The Fund is also looking to help Tonga make a shift towards climate-resilient and low-emission development.
ENDS
For further information contact: Crystal ‘Ake email: crystal.ake84@gmail.com