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24 July 2024
Caribbean leaders appeal to “conscience of the world” at OCHA briefing on Hurricane Beryl
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05 July 2024
UN official describes total devastation in Carriacou following Hurricane Beryl
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04 July 2024
UN mobilizes $4 million for Hurricane Beryl response in the Caribbean
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
The United Nations Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in collaboration with its partners is supporting implementation of the sustainable development goals across the 10 countries covered by our multi-country office (MCO). These 17 Global Goals are a roadmap to address the most pressing challenges facing Caribbean citizens and persons all over the world, to create a sustainable future for all.
Kindly note that the data visualizations show an aggregate of the Caribbean. To view the disaggregated data per country, please click on the name of the country or territory you wish to explore.
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13 May 2024
Joint Programme launched to optimize Innovative Finance for Underserved Groups in Antigua & Barbuda and Saint Lucia
St. John’s and Castries, May 10, 2024: Women and youth entrepreneurs, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and other underserved groups in Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Lucia are poised to benefit from a US$1.4 million UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Fund Joint Programme that will prioritize innovative financing solutions for underserved groups.Honourable Prime Ministers Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda and Philip Pierre of Saint Lucia, today joined UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Didier Trebucq, along with key Government and UN officials and representatives of the SDG Joint Fund, for the on-line launch of the joint programme: “Optimizing Innovative Finance for Underserved Groups to Build Resilience and Accelerate the Achievement of the SDGs in Antigua & Barbuda and Saint Lucia.”The new Joint Programme, which will be implemented by respective Finance and Corporate Governance Ministries in Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Lucia, seeks to promote greater financial inclusion for the most underserved groups in the two beneficiary countries, through strengthening their legal and regulatory capability, including securing digital financial services. It will utilize a three-pronged approach to increase access to and the effectiveness of commercial innovative finance solutions and to close financing gaps to achieve the SDGs.
In delivering remarks, the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnership of Antigua, the Hon. Gaston Browne gave assurances of his government’s commitment towards building resilience in fulfillment of the SDGs.“I am immensely pleased with the launch of this Joint Programme to optimize finance for Underserved Groups to Build Resilience and Accelerate the Achievement of the SDGs in Antigua & Barbuda and Saint Lucia,” he said.
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Economic Development, Youth Economy, Justice, and National Security of Saint Lucia, Hon. Phillip Pierre, in addressing the gathering, noted that the Joint Programme aligned with several critical priorities of the Saint Lucia Government.He added: “We are truly grateful and remain hopeful that this joint programme will be even more transformational and impactful, touching the lives of our most vulnerable and marginalized.”
Also addressing the launch prior to the Official Signing of the Project Document was UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Didier Trebucq, who said that the Joint Programme would contribute to efforts to build resilience and accelerate the SDGs in the two Caribbean countries, by addressing the current financial architecture and barriers to finance in the region which are particularly acute for youth, women and MSMEs.“While we recognize that financing gaps are often driven by significant cultural, historical, and social factors, we believe that addressing institutional gaps is also crucial,” he emphasized, noting that a key output of the Joint Programme would be the establishment of an Innovative Finance Incubator, with tailored support to strengthen countries’ regulatory and legal capacity towards development of digital financial services.Following the Resident Coordinator’s remarks, Prime Ministers Browne and Pierre officially signed the Project instrument. The signing was followed by a video address by Lisa Kurbiel, Head of the Joint SDG Fund Secretariat, who noted that to date, the Fund had approved USD $258 million in financial commitments across 233 joint programmes globally. Participants also benefited from a video reel that showcased youth and women owned businesses from both countries, which are potential beneficiaries of the Joint Program.Jason La Corbiniere, Cluster Manager, Poverty, Governance and Monitoring and Evaluation, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), lead UN Agency for implementing the Joint programme, provided a comprehensive overview of the new Joint Programme. UNDP will be joined by UN Women: the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in managing its implementation.The Project launch also featured an Interactive Dialogue on ‘Closing the Financing Gap for youth and women-owned MSMEs’ featuring senior officials from participating UN agencies, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnership in Antigua and Barbuda, and the Department of Finance in Saint Lucia.
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In delivering remarks, the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnership of Antigua, the Hon. Gaston Browne gave assurances of his government’s commitment towards building resilience in fulfillment of the SDGs.“I am immensely pleased with the launch of this Joint Programme to optimize finance for Underserved Groups to Build Resilience and Accelerate the Achievement of the SDGs in Antigua & Barbuda and Saint Lucia,” he said.
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Economic Development, Youth Economy, Justice, and National Security of Saint Lucia, Hon. Phillip Pierre, in addressing the gathering, noted that the Joint Programme aligned with several critical priorities of the Saint Lucia Government.He added: “We are truly grateful and remain hopeful that this joint programme will be even more transformational and impactful, touching the lives of our most vulnerable and marginalized.”
Also addressing the launch prior to the Official Signing of the Project Document was UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Didier Trebucq, who said that the Joint Programme would contribute to efforts to build resilience and accelerate the SDGs in the two Caribbean countries, by addressing the current financial architecture and barriers to finance in the region which are particularly acute for youth, women and MSMEs.“While we recognize that financing gaps are often driven by significant cultural, historical, and social factors, we believe that addressing institutional gaps is also crucial,” he emphasized, noting that a key output of the Joint Programme would be the establishment of an Innovative Finance Incubator, with tailored support to strengthen countries’ regulatory and legal capacity towards development of digital financial services.Following the Resident Coordinator’s remarks, Prime Ministers Browne and Pierre officially signed the Project instrument. The signing was followed by a video address by Lisa Kurbiel, Head of the Joint SDG Fund Secretariat, who noted that to date, the Fund had approved USD $258 million in financial commitments across 233 joint programmes globally. Participants also benefited from a video reel that showcased youth and women owned businesses from both countries, which are potential beneficiaries of the Joint Program.Jason La Corbiniere, Cluster Manager, Poverty, Governance and Monitoring and Evaluation, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), lead UN Agency for implementing the Joint programme, provided a comprehensive overview of the new Joint Programme. UNDP will be joined by UN Women: the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in managing its implementation.The Project launch also featured an Interactive Dialogue on ‘Closing the Financing Gap for youth and women-owned MSMEs’ featuring senior officials from participating UN agencies, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnership in Antigua and Barbuda, and the Department of Finance in Saint Lucia.
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16 May 2024
‘Fashion in da House’: celebrating the talent and potential of young Caribbean fashion
UNESCO, with funding from the European Union, promoted the first young Caribbean fashion show in Havana as part of a professional development programme to strengthen emerging talent and stimulate the industry in the region.The Caribbean is known for its vibrant fashion, which is influenced by a blend of various cultures and ethnicities. Long-standing traditions, coming from African, Indian, European and Asian fashion, reflect the wealth of historical influences that have shaped the Caribbean identity. However, many young entrepreneurs in the Caribbean fashion industry face challenges, such as limited access to broader markets, lack of learning and mentoring opportunities, and difficulties in financing their own business projects. Additionally, there is a gap between high creativity and fragmented professional networks, hindering the development of a comprehensive sub-regional offering of products and services.In this context, the UNESCO programme Transcultura: Integrating Cuba, the Caribbean and the European Union through Culture and Creativity, funded by the European Union, organized ‘Fashion in da House’, an unprecedented regional initiative that took place from 2 to 9 May 2024, as part of the Month of Europe in Cuba. The goal of the event is to empower young Caribbean talent to develop locally and professionalize the region’s Cultural and Creative Industries.Fashion is an economic engine in many regions. It generates jobs, drives innovation and creates business opportunities. By supporting young designers and promoting the local industry, events like “Fashion in da House” can foster economic growth, from more ethical and responsible practices to the promotion of the sustainability and well-being of the Caribbean.Anne Lemaistre, Director of UNESCO Regional Office in HavanaTo this purpose, 16 young designers from 11 Caribbean countries, finalists of the Transcultura Fashion Design Contest ‘Made in the Caribbean’, participated in a professional mentoring programme for a week. This included specialized workshops to improve their skills and knowledge of the fashion sector, expert advice, keynote lectures, the chance to learn about business models in the fashion sector, and visits and exchanges with local fashion studios and shops.The programme included the first young Caribbean fashion show in Havana, held on 7 May at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Cuba. With more than seventy pieces, the young participants showcased their creations representing the identity, creativity and diversity of the region.Winning this award, representing Trinidad and Tobago, is very important to me as I feel recognized for my work and designs. I am very grateful for this opportunity, because with Transcultura, UNESCO and the European Union are supporting young fashion designers to develop themselves, grow their careers and their brands as Caribbean designers.Naballah Chi (Trinidad and Tobago), Fashion designer and winner of a Transcultura AwardAn international jury made up of experts Omoyemi Akerele (Nigeria), Meta Štular (Slovenia), Terri-Karelle Reid (Jamaica), Javier Fernández Poyo (Spain) and Carmen Gómez Pózo (Cuba) awarded the Transcultura Prizes to the best collection to Rhea Cummins Jordan, from Barbados, and to Naballah Chi, from Trinidad and Tobago. Karen De Freitas, from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, got a Special Mention. Additionally, the public also had the opportunity to vote and choose Genesis Vasquez, de la República Dominican, as the creator of their favourite design. The young winners will have the opportunity to participate in a two-month artistic residency at the Rog Centre in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in the summer of 2024. For the Rog Center, it is important to offer Caribbean creatives the opportunity to work alongside our designers in Ljubljana. This will allow them to experience a new culture and use our facilities designed specifically for collaboration.Meta Štular, Director of Strategic Development and Programmes of the Rog Centre (Slovenia)During the parade, the 'Mondriaberas' collection, consisting of eight pieces and sponsored by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Cuba, was also presented. Its title honours the renowned Dutch painter and art theorist Piet Mondrian, commemorating the 80th anniversary of his death. This collection merges the canvases of this outstanding artist with the traditional ‘guayabera’, a garment that embodies Cuban identity.
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07 May 2024
PAHO Conducts Outbreak Investigation Training for Cricket World Cup and Beyond
Bridgetown, Barbados, 26 April 2024 (PAHO). Environmental health officers and public health nurses converged for a week of training to enhance their outbreak investigation skills.The training was developed to increase the capacity of the officers to respond to public health emergencies in general, whether during the Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup or beyond, based on risk assessment. PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, Dr. Amalia Del Riego, stated that the training “serves as a crucial opportunity to enhance our skills, share knowledge, and collaborate in safeguarding the health and well-being of the people of Barbados and beyond. Together, through our commitment to excellence in outbreak investigation, we can contribute to a safer, healthier future for all.”PAHO Consultant, Dr. Gladzdin Jean Denis was the facilitator for the training.Each morning, examinations were hosted for the officers to assess their comprehension of the training.The topics covered included identifying an outbreak and investigation steps; case studies; transmission cases; planning field investigation; epidemiological studies; healthcare associated infections; collection and handling of human and environmental samples; the role of vectors in disease transmission; control and response measures; safety, occupational health, and biosecurity in the field; and interacting with the media to familiarize officers with risk communication strategies and what is required of media spokespersons.Ministry of Health and Wellness Epidemiologist, Maria Ingram, described the training as vital not only to sharpen officers’ skills for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, but to prepare them for any international event.PAHO/WHO ECC Advisor for Health Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control, Dr. Prabhjot Singh, is satisfied that the workshop’s objective was achieved. “Our aim was to increase the officers’ capacity to investigate a public health outbreak and we have done so.”Fourteen people participated in the training and further training will soon be hosted.
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15 May 2024
Small islands ready for global spotlight and accelerated action at Antigua and Barbuda conference
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face major challenges—climate change, geographic remoteness, a narrow export base—that make them vulnerable to external economic, environmental, and social shocks. But they also have innovative solutions, dynamic populations, and people ready to act. Despite their challenges, SIDS have been moving forward with their sustainable development guided by the commitments of previous programmes of action, the SAMOA Pathway, and the Sustainable Development Goals. Now it’s time for these islands to take the global spotlight and inspire a revitalized jolt of investment and commitment. The upcoming Fourth International Conference on SIDS (SIDS4), taking place in Antigua and Barbuda from 27 to 30 May, will bring together world leaders from SIDS and partner countries to tackle these pressing issues. “Small Island Developing States represent a small percentage of the world’s population, but their fate has consequences for all of us,” said Li Junhua, the head of UN DESA who will serve as the Secretary-General of the SIDS4 Conference.The 39 SIDS are small in size but big in ambition. The major outcome of the conference will be an intergovernmentally agreed outcome document: The Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS)—a Renewed Declaration for Resilient Prosperity. This document will set out the sustainable development aspirations of small islands for the next 10 years and the support required from the international community to achieve them. Their priorities include building resilient economies; fostering safe, healthy and prosperous societies; achieving water, food and energy security; conserving biodiversity; protecting and sustainably using the ocean and its resources; and halting and urgently mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change. To help SIDS meet these ambitions, the ABAS declaration will contain commitments to facilitate access to affordable and concessional finance, increase effectiveness of development finance, as well as scale-up biodiversity finance and climate action and support, including climate finance, in line with existing obligations and commitments.In addition to eight plenary meetings, there will be five interactive dialogues, and five high-level special events focused on children and youth, gender equality, business networks, the private sector, and civil society. All of these events aim to underscore the importance of small island countries and their people and set them on a path toward sustainable development. SIDS countries provide the world with culture, innovations, natural resources and Indigenous knowledge that play a critical role in the health of our shared society. Ensuring their resilient prosperity benefits us all.The SIDS4 Conference, Mr. Li said, “is a pivotal moment for small islands and the whole world.”
For more information: 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States
For more information: 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States
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22 April 2024
Indigenous Kalinago lead the way towards making Dominica ‘climate resilient’
Dominica aims to become the world’s first “climate-resilient" nation, and the indigenous Kalinago people are playing a leading role in developing the country and helping its people to thrive in the face of the climate emergency.Dominica, which lies in Eastern Caribbean, is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events, which are being exacerbated by the climate crisis: Hurricane Maria in 2017 was a devastating example, damaging almost all homes and buildings, destroying around three-quarters of the fishing fleet and crippling the economy.The indigenous Kalinago people were particularly affected but, since then, community leaders have been working with the UN to help its people to become more resilient, in anticipation of the next climate shock.Ahead of the 2024 session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) Conor Lennon from UN News met Sylvanie Burton – who is both the country’s first Kalinago, and also first woman, Head of State – and Lorenzo Sanford, the youngest-ever Chief of the Kalinago community, to find out how they plan to achieve their goal of making the island the world’s first “climate-resilient” nation, and why the young people of the community are central to the resurgence of the indigenous culture on the island.UN News/ Brianna RoweSylvanie Burton (l), Lorenzo Sanford (c), Conor Lennon (r)Lorenzo Sanford: In the past it was always the same people who were elected as chief. I wanted to make a difference, and introduce the views of younger individuals, because our community has many young people, by taking a ground-up approach.UN News: What did the older generations of the Kalinago community think about such a young person being made chief?Sylvanie Burton: The Kalinago population is around 65 per cent young people, so we wanted to give our youth the opportunity to make a difference. We rallied around Lorenzo, which give him the level of authority needed in order to become chief. UN News: What effect did Hurricane Maria have on the Kalinago Territory?Lorenzo Sanford: I was on another part of the island when Maria hit, and I wanted to check on my family. There was no internet, no phone connection, and the roads were blocked, so the only way to return was on foot, using the traditional trails.When I came across the mountains, everything was brown; there was no greenery anymore. All you could see was destroyed homes, and people looking lost, not knowing what to do.Sylvanie Burton: Before Maria arrived, I knew that our island was going to take a direct hit. So, we called an emergency council and decided to go to the homes of the elderly and take them to the shelters. By mid-afternoon most vulnerable people had been taken to safety.And then the tropical storm started coming in. The sea was raging and I could hear the roaring of the wind coming up from the valley. The storm pounded us for hours and hours. I started praying, and even asked God why he was not answering our prayers. I was thankful that I was in a concrete structure, and I could only imagine what was happening to our people living in small wooden houses in the rest of the Kalinago Territory. The next day, after the storm had passed, we thought that the sea was very close to our homes. It wasn’t, but it seemed that way because all of the trees and the houses were gone. It was a very painful experience that you wouldn’t want anyone to go through. It was a miracle that no one in our territory died.UN News/ Brianna RoweTraditional Kalinago building, reinforced by concreteUN News: Before the hurricane most of the buildings were made of wood, but I’ve seen several concrete homes and buildings. Is that construction part of the effort to make Dominica more resilient?Lorenzo Sanford: Yes. In the Kalinago Territory we have a lot of different housing projects going on. We went into the community with the different agencies that were proposing to help, to see how we could make stronger houses, that would still be built in a Kalinago style. We are also building a large multipurpose community shelter, but we want more people to feel safer in their own homes the next time a tropical storm hits. UN News: Access to reliable information is crucial to saving lives. How are you ensuring that as many people as possible have early warnings about extreme weather events?Sylvanie Burton: We’re working to get better information on the climate and get it out to the population before storms hit. We are also creating ICT (information communication technology) hubs across Dominica, where people can access information before the storms, take precautions, and get to a shelter ahead of time. UN News/ Brianna RoweKalinago Territory, DominicaUN News: Raising the finance to deal with the consequences of the climate crisis is an issue for all Small Island Developing States, not just Dominica. You’re not responsible for the crisis, but you’re disproportionately affected by it. Is it getting easier to access the funds you need to adapt?Sylvanie Burton: At the UN climate conferences, we hear the big polluting countries promise to give funds and reduce their own carbon footprint. But these countries need to turn their promises into action. For example, after Hurricane Maria, the UN Secretary-General came to Dominica, and several countries made pledges to help. But many of these pledges were not fulfilled, so we had to take out loans to ensure that we build a climate-resilient country. We are very thankful for the UN organizations that are assisting Dominica, and the countries that are assisting, but it will take a little more. These big countries need to put their money where their mouth is! UN News: The Kalinago have been on this island for more than 500 years. Has that accumulated folk knowledge helped you to adapt to the changing climate?Lorenzo Sanford: I would say that it has helped us to bounce back in in a very fast way. For example, our indigenous practices inform how we plant our food. So, we hope that this knowledge will be passed on to younger generations, so that we can safeguard our future, both within the Kalinago Territory and across the whole island.**This story was first featured on UN News. This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
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Story
25 July 2024
Caribbean leaders appeal to “conscience of the world” at OCHA briefing on Hurricane Beryl
"Carriacou and Petite Martinique have to be rebuilt from scratch."With these stark words, Joseph Andall, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development of Grenada, captured the extent of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Beryl, in opening remarks delivered virtually to a briefing at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, 19 July 2024.Hosted by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the briefing aimed to address the severe humanitarian crisis caused by Hurricane Beryl, which has left nearly 60,000 people across Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in need of humanitarian assistance.Hurricane Beryl struck Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada on 1 July as a Category 4 hurricane that subsequently increased to a Category 5, making it the earliest Category five Atlantic hurricane on record, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Mr. Andall described the ongoing recovery as a “herculean task” and stressed that “we will need all the outside assistance we can get.”The briefing, broadcast live on UN Web TV, featured contributions from senior government officials, and representatives of regional entities and the United Nations. Speakers underscored the urgent need for coordinated international support to aid the stricken communities. “Today's briefing is about people – people who are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters – whose lives, livelihoods, and life paths have been disrupted, in many cases permanently,” remarked Elizabeth Riley, Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). Hurricane Beryl's Impact in the Eastern CaribbeanThe economies of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, two islands of the Grenadian State, have been virtually obliterated by Hurricane Beryl, Mr. Andall said, pointing to substantial damage to the agriculture, marine industries, and crucial infrastructure. "Boats, fishing equipment, mangroves, livestock, the entire agriculture sector, and the marine industry businesses, forests—almost everything in Carriacou is totally wiped out.”Mr. Andall further stated that 98% of all buildings in these two islands and Isle de Ronde, another island of Grenada, were destroyed to varying degrees.In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the impact was similarly devastating. Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, said that close to 10,000 houses needed repair or reconstruction, with the number growing as assessments continue. Prime Minister Gonsalves emphasized that lack of insurance coverage was a major issue, particularly on Union Island in the Grenadines, where only 79 out of 1,300 structures were insured.He detailed ongoing efforts to restore vital services, and progress to date, stating that the situation had been stabilized: “Food, water, health – all the basic facilities – have been secured, he said, “and we are doing the cleaning up.” Dr Gonzalves thanked the personnel of the United Nations Agencies on the ground for “remarkable” and “heroic work” in support of recovery efforts.Restoring electricity was a slower process, however, which was still ongoing and would happen in phases in the southern Grenadines. “Union island may not have electricity until early next year,” said Dr Gonzalves. UN Support for Regional Response on the Ground “I had the sobering opportunity to see first-hand the scale of the destruction and the immediate impacts on families and communities as I visited the islands of Union, Mayreau, Canouan, as well as the three northern affected parishes of Grenada,” noted Simon Springett, the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.He described how the UN and its partners had been cooperating with governments to support the immediate response to Hurricane Beryl on the ground and added that his office had also deployed “self-sustaining UN disaster coordination and assessment teams across the islands as well as debris management and waste management experts.” The Resident Coordinator and the CDEMA Executive Director co-chair the Caribbean Development Partners Group (CDPG) —a sub-regional coordination platform for preparedness and response to disasters. Ms. Riley emphasized the importance of this partnership:“The reality is that we can accomplish so much more working together than working apart,” she stated, thanking Mr. Springett and the UN entities he coordinates in the Eastern Caribbean for supporting CDEMA’s regional response mechanism, through which humanitarian aid and surge support has been delivered.François Jackman, Permanent Representative of Barbados to the United Nations echoed this sentiment and praised the effectiveness of the UN Resident Coordinator system in delivering a response for the Eastern Caribbean.“My country has been making the case here in the UN that the Resident Coordinator system and its spinoffs is one of the success stories within the UN system and within the reform of the UN system and that we must do all that we can to shore up this system give it what it needs to do the kind of excellent work that it's doing in our region right now and not allow it to suffer from the kinds of funding and resource constraints under which it's presently laboring.”OCHA’s response plan estimates that an initial USD $9 million is needed to support humanitarian efforts. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has allocated USD $4 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Comprehensive Recovery and Future Preparedness“This recent catastrophic event makes clear to us, even to the doubters, that the climate crisis is not imminent, it is here, it is now, it is destructive, and it is more destructive for those who have done the least to provoke it: we the small island developing and coastal states,” said Mr. Andall.The WMO has forecast 17 to 25 named storms for the Atlantic hurricane season — exceeding the typical 14 — with up to seven potentially developing into major hurricanes.“Beryl epitomizes the reality of climate change and the resulting loss and damage which unfortunately is now our norm,” said Ms. Riley, adding, “it is possible for us to choose a different path.”Mr. Andall emphasized the necessity for a systemic approach to funding and rebuilding in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Grenada, calling for the introduction of a system to “provide the necessary grant and concessional funding with minimal red tape.” in the wake of a hurricane or any other natural disaster.The sentiment was echoed by Dr. Gonsalves, who further highlighted the severity of the danger for SIDS on the frontline of the climate crisis.“We find ourselves facing extremely high public debt burdens and are caught in a spiral web of a vicious debt disaster debt cycle constantly borrowing, often at exorbitant commercial rates, simply to recover with just little time before the next hurricane or natural disaster strikes.”A call to global solidarityDr. Gonsalves highlighted the resilience of the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, reminding the international community of the barrage of setbacks his island nation had faced, from the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 to 2021, to the eruption of the La Soufrière Volcano in April 2021, to Hurricane Elsa which made landfall in July of that very year. This, however, has not dimmed spirits on the island. “The people are quite hopeful, our people are quite resilient,” he said. Mr. Andall spoke to “the conscience of the world,” urging solidarity towards ensuring that, “justice be done for and by these small vulnerable states.”Resident Coordinator Springett, supported their pleas, urging climate justice. "I would like to also stand behind the governments of both Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in their demands for climate justice."Ms. Riley highlighted the need for systemic change at the global level to address the recurring devastation. "As a humanitarian and development organization, CDEMA urges the acceleration of climate action and utilizing the spaces of the upcoming Summit of the Future and COP 29 to reset this pathway." The Summit of the Future is a high-level event taking place in September 2024 that will bring world leaders together to forge a new international consensus on how to deliver a better present for all and safeguard the future._________________________________________
This story was first published by United Nations in the Caribbean
This story was first published by United Nations in the Caribbean
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05 July 2024
UN official describes total devastation in Carriacou following Hurricane Beryl
As humanitarian teams ramp up their support to communities affected across the Caribbean, speaking via video link from Grenada, Simon Springett, UN Resident Coordinator in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, outlined a scene of total devastation in Carriacou – where Beryl first made landfall on 1 July. “The entire island is completely affected … that is literally 100 per cent of the population,” he stressed.Hurricane Beryl is the strongest hurricane in history to form in June in the Atlantic Ocean. Initially a tropical depression, it rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm and briefly reached Category 5 status, with winds up to 240 km/h (150 mph).On Friday morning (New York time), it made landfall in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, and is reportedly tracking west-northwest, projected to make landfall in southern Texas, United States on Monday morning. Very complicated crisisMr. Springett highlighted the situation as a “very complicated crisis”, one that is marked by severe logistical and access challenges. Four days after the hurricane hit, roads on the island are impassable and communications were only restored last night, he said.“Directly after the hurricane, the seas were exceptionally rough, which made it nearly impossible to get there. The air control towers are out – so there is only fly by visibility. But also, even when things get to the airport, there no roads to access the goods.” International responseNations near and far are dispatching aid, with a French ship arriving in Carriacou later in the day as well as assistance from Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Springett said.“We have a large outpouring of international response … it is really an international effort, and the UN is really proud to be to be a part of this,” he said.Also speaking, via video link from Bahamas, Dennis Zulu, the Resident Coordinator for Jamaica and Bahamas, echoed international collaboration. He highlighted that the UN is working in coordination with Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the regional emergency and disaster response agency to ensure a coherent regional response.“We are poised to mount a coordinated humanitarian response with the international development partner community and are already engaging international partners and organizations in Jamaica,” he added. Widespread damageDetailed assessment of damage in Jamaica and in other island nations supported by his office are ongoing, Mr. Zulu said.“The damage is widely apparent and is felt by people from all walks of life, especially in rural Jamaica, including in the southern parishes of Clarendon, Manchester and Saint Elizabeth, and for those in vulnerable housing,” he added.He also noted that the Government of Jamaica has put in place an effective response plan, supported by UN and partners, including shelters for those who lost their homes.Alongside, other key requirements include clean drinking water, access to communication and data and livelihood support. ‘Pledge to be there for children’According to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), over 650,000 people – including 150,000 children – in Barbados, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Tobago were in the path of Hurricane Beryl.Many have lost homes and are being housed in temporary shelters.The UN agency for its part had pre-positioned life-saving supplies before the storm and is mobilizing supplies and funds for the response.“[We are] deeply concerned at the plight of those affected by Hurricane Beryl, especially the most vulnerable – children and women … we pledge to be there for children of the affected countries,” said Pieter Bult, UNICEF Representative for the Eastern Caribbean Area.Similarly, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) has also deployed teams to the affected islands, supporting authorities with assessments and early response.In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the agency has been asked to provide emergency telecommunications and logistics support, while in Barbados it is assisting with emergency food kits that will be shipped and distributed to people in the affected islands.Very intense hurricane season fearedEarlier in the day in Geneva, Vanessa Huguenin, a spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said that while humanitarians have been preparing for this hurricane season, “such a strong storm this early is extremely rare.”“It is also a warning for the anticipated very intense hurricane season that is coming,” she said at the regular media briefing at the UN Office at Geneva (UNOG).The Atlantic storm season runs from June through the end of November, with 17 to 25 named storms expected. The average is 14 storms a year.Of those, the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said that eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes – above the average of seven – including four to seven major hurricanes.A major hurricane is category three, four or five on the Saffir Simpson scale, with winds of 110 mph winds (177 km/h), or higher.“This new reality of unprecedented hurricanes is becoming an annual and ever-present reality for the Caribbean countries while facing the brunt of climate change,” said Rhea Pierre, Disaster Manager at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).“The severity of damages in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl are tangible and devastating.”By Vibhu Mishra, with additional reporting by Daniel Johnson in Geneva
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Story
04 July 2024
UN mobilizes $4 million for Hurricane Beryl response in the Caribbean
Hurricane Beryl, the strongest hurricane in history to form in June in the Atlantic Ocean, wreaked havoc as it swept through Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Jamaica.Initially a tropical depression, Beryl rapidly intensified into a Category 4 hurricane and briefly reached Category 5 status, with winds up to 240 km/h (150 mph).Now downgraded to a Category 3 hurricane, Hurricane Beryl is moving towards Belize and Mexico, continuing to pose a significant threat.The storm has claimed at least ten lives, injuring many and caused widespread destruction, forcing thousands into shelters. UN chief ‘deeply dismayed’UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his deep dismay at the destruction caused by the hurricane, reiterating his solidarity with affected nations.“The Secretary-General, in coordination with the affected nations, is considering launching an appeal to address humanitarian needs arising from the impact of Hurricane Beryl,” his Spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said in a statement issued late on Wednesday.The statement added that $4 million will be made available from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund to Grenada, Jamaica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. UN teams on the groundUN humanitarian officials in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and in Grenada are working with local officials, assisting damage assessment and response.Teams from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) are also in Barbados, supporting efforts in the country and the eastern Caribbean, Mr. Dujarric said during a press briefing at the UN Headquarters in New York earlier in the day.Teams are also heading to Belize and Jamaica, he added.
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Story
04 July 2024
Hurricane Beryl underscores need for urgent action on Disaster Risk Reduction
The category four storm, which is still unfolding, has left communities grappling with severe devastation from extremely strong winds. By the time we prepare this article some impacts are expected also to impact Mexico and Belize.“I send my heartfelt condolences to the affected Caribbean nations where lives have been lost and homes and livelihoods have been destroyed,” said Mr. Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Head of UNDRR.“In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, it is clear that we must redouble our efforts to build resilience and preparedness in the face of growing disaster risk, especially for small island developing states, which have contributed the least to the climate crisis but suffer the greatest costs.”UNDRR is calling for urgent action on disaster risk reduction to get ahead of growing climate risks. According to the United States' National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Beryl became the first-ever Category 4 hurricane to form in June, highlighting an unprecedented early-season intensity in the Caribbean.Only just over a month ago, the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) was agreed at the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4). Hurricane Beryl makes clear the importance of supporting its implementation. The 10-year agenda integrates disaster risk reduction as central to climate change adaptation and sustainable development in SIDS with clear calls to action on enhancing multi-hazard early warning systems and resilient infrastructure."We cannot wait for the next disaster to strike before taking action," said Mr. Kishore. "We have an opportunity in the remaining years of the Sendai Framework to accelerate progress to protect lives, livelihoods, and communities for generations to come.”The unprecedented hurricane demonstrates the importance of effective multi-hazard early warning systems to save lives. Globally, the sustained investments in those systems are making progress in reducing the loss of life in disasters. But economic losses are escalating. Every year millions of households lose their livelihood and risk being pushed into poverty. Ensuring that infrastructure is resilient and that communities "build back better" in the face of future hazards is essential.UNDRR is committed to supporting countries in their efforts to build resilience and reduce disaster risk and stands ready to support regional and national efforts through coordinated UN initiatives in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.UNDRR also extends its sincere appreciation to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the National Disaster Risk Management Agencies, and other UN agencies in the Caribbean for their crucial role in coordinating preparedness and response activities. UNDRR remains committed to supporting these organizations to ensure a more resilient region.
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Story
04 July 2024
UNDP Ready to Support the Caribbean to Recover from Hurricane Beryl
“We are deeply saddened by the devastating loss of life, the impact on livelihoods and infrastructures as well as the suffering caused to communities by this hurricane. UNDP remains in solidarity with the Caribbean people, and we stand ready to support the governments and communities with immediate critical needs as they begin to recover from this event”, said Michelle Muschett, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean.UNDP stands ready to deploy personnel to support national and regional emergency management authorities for relief and recovery efforts in the Eastern Caribbean and is monitoring the path of the hurricane that could potentially affect Jamaica and Central America. Preliminary reports indicate that Carriacou, Grenada, and some Grenadine islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are among the worst affected so far, with widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure, including telecommunications, and at least one death. Meanwhile, Barbados experienced damage to coastal infrastructure and significant property losses in the marine sector. “We stand in solidarity with the affected people and communities across the Eastern Caribbean. Our team has been on high alert monitoring the progress and impact of the storm, and we are ready to quickly mobilize the necessary resources and expertise in disaster relief and recovery,” said Limya Eltayeb, UNDP Resident Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. Beryl is the second named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season - which was forecast to be a very active one. Ocean temperatures, already elevated due to climate variability and change, have been further increased by the 2023-24 El Niño phenomenon. From a period of intense drought, we are expected to transition to a stronger-than-normal hurricane season. This season, 20-25 storms are forecasted, of which 8-12 could become hurricanes. As this unprecedented hurricane season is getting started, UNDP will continue supporting the region in prevention, preparedness, and recovery.
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Press Release
04 June 2024
OP-ED: 5th World Food Safety Day: "Prepare for the Unexpected"
By Dr. Renata Clarke, Sub-Regional Coordinator for the Caribbean, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) & Dr. Lisa Indar, Director, Disease Prevention and Surveillance, Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) The 5th World Food Safety Day is upon us. But June, in the Caribbean this year, is filled with excitement about the World Cup Cricket. Amidst the excitement, is the pride that most West Indians feel in having the region showcased globally. The pride that most Caribbean people feel in having thousands of visitors appreciate and enjoy their piece of paradise.Eating well and enjoying the local cuisine is definitely a big part of most visitors’ holiday experience. Wouldn’t it be disastrous for the reputation of the country if there were frequent reports of foodborne illness? Tourism and hospitality are important for our economies, and it is necessary to appreciate how numerous services and facilities provided largely by government, enable these sectors to thrive. This article focuses on the ongoing investment in food safety that enables the Caribbean to confidently open its “doors” to the millions of tourists that arrive every year.Governments continuously review and update food standards to assure an acceptable level of public health protection in light of new and emerging information. They also regularly update processes and regulations that serve to ensure the food industry comply with expected standards. Several Caribbean countries have undergone rigorous assessments of their systems of food safety and quality control, over the last 2 years, in the spirit of continuous improvement. Food safety is too important to allow complacency.“The assessments are enabling countries to identify opportunities to further strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of food control and to make them future-ready in this time of rapid environmental, technological and social change”, said Renata Clarke the FAO Sub-regional Coordinator for the Caribbean. The food safety risk analysis paradigm provides a solid foundation for national food control systems. It involves scientific/ technical assessment of food safety risks facing consumers; food safety risk management actions to minimize risk to consumers and effective communication to all stakeholders to enable them to take appropriate action to guarantee the safety of food. Many Caribbean countries have demonstrated vigilance and proactivity in identifying potential breaches of food safety in light of the upcoming large mass gathering crowds drawn to the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup events. With the expectation of greatly increased numbers of street food vendors and customers, Ministries of Health (MOH) and food safety authorities have put emphasis on updating food safety training to vendors and food safety awareness for consumers.“The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in collaboration with MOH conducted in-country food safety training for mass gathering setting for almost 900 food vendors from the six Caribbean host countries who will selling food at the cricket stadiums/and its environs; as well as almost 400 persons from the hospitality sector”, said Lisa Indar, Director, Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control Division, CARPHA.Food safety is a shared responsibility: governments, food industry, food handlers and consumers all have critical roles to play. One key role of governments is scanning the horizon to identify and then mitigate potential threats to the safety of food supplies. They have demonstrated to be on top of the situation. Have a great WCC and enjoy the cuisine safely!
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Press Release
15 April 2024
Nominations open for 2024 Champions of the Earth Award with a focus on land restoration, drought resilience, combating desertification
Nairobi, 15 April 2024 – The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) today launched a call for nominations for the annual Champions of the Earth award – the UN’s highest environmental honour, which recognizes outstanding leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector for their transformative impact on the environment.This year, UNEP encourages nominations of individuals and organizations developing and implementing sustainable policies and solutions to restore land, enhance drought resilience, and combat desertification.Since the award’s inception in 2005, Champions of the Earth has recognized 116 laureates, including 27 world leaders, 70 individuals and 19 organizations. In 2023, UNEP received a record 2,500 nominations for the award.As we approach the halfway mark of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, urgent action is needed to protect and revive ecosystems. Restoration improves livelihoods, reduces poverty, builds resilience to extreme weather and slows the climate crisis. To support the natural world, governments, civil society and the private sector must scale up financing, build capacity and shift behaviours.World Environment Day on 5 June 2024 will focus on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience. The UN Convention to Combat Desertification, marking its thirtieth anniversary this year, will convene its sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP) in December.Restoring and reviving nature is critical to improving human and planetary health. Leaders from all sectors and regions are actively working to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity and nature loss, and pollution and waste. The Champions of the Earth help lead that push. They remind us that environmental sustainability is key to achieving sustainable development.Individuals, organizations and government entities may be nominated under the categories of Policy Leadership, Inspiration and Action, Entrepreneurial Vision, and Science and Innovation. Nominations are open from 15 April to 5 May 2024 to everyone. The Champions of the Earth will be announced in late 2024.Nominate a Champion of the Earth In 2023, UNEP recognized individuals, organizations and governments implementing innovative solutions and policies to tackle plastic pollution. UNEP’s 2023 Champions of the Earth were:Mayor Josefina Belmonte of Quezon City, Philippines, honoured in the Policy Leadership category, is driving environmental and social action through a raft of policies to combat the climate crisis, end plastic pollution and green the urban enclave. Her initiatives include bans on single-use plastics, a trade-in programme for plastic pollution, refill stations for everyday essentials and advocacy for strong global policymaking on plastics.Ellen MacArthur Foundation (United Kingdom), honoured in the Inspiration and Action category, has played a leading role in mainstreaming a lifecycle approach, including for plastics. The foundation has published reports and established networks of private and public sector decision makers, as well as academia, to develop lifecycle initiatives and solutions to the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, plastic pollution and more. It leads the Global Commitment with UNEP.Blue Circle (China), honoured in the Entrepreneurial Vision category, uses blockchain technology and the internet of things to track and monitor the full lifecycle of plastic pollution – from collection to regeneration, re-manufacturing and re-sale. It has collected over 10,700 tonnes of marine debris, making it China’s largest marine plastic waste programme.José Manuel Moller (Chile), also honoured in the Entrepreneurial Vision category, is the founder of Algramo, a social enterprise dedicated to providing refill services that reduce plastic pollution and lower the costs of everyday essentials. Moller also works to prevent, reduce and sustainably manage waste through his role as Vice Chair of the UN Advisory Board of Eminent Persons on Zero Waste, an initiative set up in March 2023.Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (South Africa), honoured in the Science and Innovation category, uses cutting-edge technology and multidisciplinary research to develop innovations to tackle plastic pollution and other issues. It is a pioneer in identifying sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics, establishing opportunities for local manufacturing and economic development and testing plastic biodegradability.About the UNEP Champions of the Earth
UNEP’s Champions of the Earth honours individuals, groups and organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment. The annual Champions of the Earth award is the UN’s highest environmental honour. #EarthChampsAbout the UN Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. For more information, please contact:
News and Media Unit, UN Environment Programme
UNEP’s Champions of the Earth honours individuals, groups and organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment. The annual Champions of the Earth award is the UN’s highest environmental honour. #EarthChampsAbout the UN Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. For more information, please contact:
News and Media Unit, UN Environment Programme
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Press Release
27 March 2024
Op-ED On Agrifood Systems: A Path to Sustainable Development In Latin America And The Caribbean
Every two years, FAO holds a Regional Ministerial Conference in Latin America and the Caribbean, bringing together its 33 Members in the region to monitor progress and address the challenges towards fighting hunger, poverty, malnutrition, and inequalities, and to achieving the transformation of agrifood systems to be more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable.In Latin America and the Caribbean, FAO’s agrifood systems approach has been effective in supporting countries in accelerating the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to FAO's latest estimates, the prevalence of undernourishment in the region decreased in 2022 to 6.5 percent, from 7.0 percent in 2021, which means that 2.4 million people are no longer suffering from hunger. However, such progress has occurred in South America (from 7.0 percent to 6.1 percent), while the prevalence of hunger has remained almost the same in Mesoamerica (from 5.0 percent to 5.1 percent). In the Caribbean, undernourishment has risen, from 14.7 percent in 2021 to 16.3 percent in 2022.These statistics only scratch the surface of the current challenges facing agrifood systems in the region, which include the impacts of the climate crisis, economic disparities, and an over-dependence on commodities. Although the region is a net food exporter and responsible for 13 percent of global food production, reliance on commodity imports and exports exposes its agrifood systems to macroeconomic volatility and geopolitical instability, which in turn negatively impact food prices and incomes and lead to unfavourable food security and nutrition outcomes.The 38th FAO Regional Ministerial Conference will be held in the Caribbean nation of Guyana from 18 to 21 March 2024. This conference is a significant opportunity for member countries to enhance their individual and collective innovative thinking and build capacity to adapt to the changing landscape of agrifood systems across the region, and beyond, and be prepared for possible future scenarios.With the engagement of governments and all partners, the conference aims to forge a consensus on tailored action plans for food and agriculture and to uphold the fundamental human right to food in an open, transparent, and inclusive manner.The experience in Latin America and the Caribbean shows that achieving sustainable agrifood systems requires concerted multi-sectoral efforts. Fighting hunger is an act of collective responsibility, and thanks to a thriving regional integration, tangible results have been achieved. FAO continues to work through relevant international and multilateral fora in the region, and beyond, to continue to highlight the food security agenda and accelerate actions to advance the transformation of agrifood systems.Ownership and leadership by FAO Members, and collective efforts by all development partners and stakeholders, are critical. Shared vision, foresight, responsibilities, and implementation arrangements are needed to achieve our goals. I would like to emphasize the significance of collaborations and partnerships across the Latin America and the Caribbean region.In recent years, significant strides have been taken to bring together diverse perspectives and reach a regional consensus that will provide the blueprint for the Organization’s work in the region for the next biennium.FAO is currently implementing around 400 national, sub-regional, and regional projects in Latin America and the Caribbean that have added millions of households to the agrifood value chain.Moreover, there is evidence that FAO's global initiatives, such as the Hand-in-Hand, the 1000 Digital Villages, and the One Country One Priority Product, have positively impacted farmers, especially smallholders, women, youth, Indigenous Peoples and marginalized groups and rural populations.At the Regional Ministerial Conference, FAO will focus on four interconnected regional priorities reflecting the “four betters” set out in the Organization's Strategic Framework 2022-31 - better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. These priorities aim to catalyze the transformation of agrifood systems by enhancing efficiency, inclusivity, and sustainability in production; eradicating hunger and advancing food security and nutrition; promoting the sustainable management of natural resources and adaptation to the climate crisis; and addressing inequalities, poverty, and fostering resilience.The comprehensive Strategic Framework for the next decade provides us with an opportunity to take a wide-ranging look at our agrifood systems, identify areas that need improvement, and take appropriate actions. Members benefit from FAO's technical expertise, assistance, and support through its headquarters, as well as regional, subregional, and country offices, to ensure effective implementation in support of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs. My focus is on strengthening FAO’s country offices to maximize their impact on the ground and support the work of Members at the country level.Our main goal for the region remains clear: to improve food production and ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food, while protecting natural resources and reducing inequalities, poverty, and hunger. We must produce more with less. To this end, we need to leverage the potential of cooperation, trade, investment and the utilization of innovation and technology within the region and with other regions.At FAO, we have realigned and refocused our efforts towards supporting Members in accelerating the transformation needed. We have adopted agile operating strategies, offered tailored and timely data and analytical support, enhanced our engagement with governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, and international financial institutions, and have established transformative partnerships with all key players. The reformed and restructured FAO is now better equipped, fit-for-purpose and already working towards this transformation for the benefit of people, planet, and prosperity.
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Press Release
27 March 2024
FAO regional conference: Latin America and the Caribbean chart the way towards sustainable fisheries and aquaculture for food security
March 19, 2024, Georgetown, Guyana –With 85 million people depending on aquatic foods for their livelihoods, these resources are vital to Latin America and the Caribbean's social, economic, and nutritional well-being. However, challenges such as climate change, pollution, and environmental degradation threaten the long-term viability of aquatic food systems, just as the region is at a crucial point on its path to food security and environmental sustainability.This urgency was the focus of the Ministerial Roundtable "Advancing fisheries and aquaculture towards sustainability under the Blue Transformation approach," held within the framework of the 38th FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, which is taking place these days in Georgetown, Guyana.The Blue Transformation is an approach aimed at redefining our relationship with aquatic foods and proposes a vision of sustainable aquaculture production, effective fisheries management, and improved value chains. The goal is to achieve more equitable, resilient, and sustainable food systems."If implemented sustainably, blue transformation will increase global aquatic food consumption, even as the population grows. But if we do not transform and do not have sustainable practices, we could reduce per capita consumption of this food, putting more pressure on land-based production systems," explained Manuel Barange, FAO Assistant Director-General and Director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division.Ministers, vice ministers, and high authorities from Dominica, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad, and Tobago shared their countries' experiences. They agreed on the need for a joint effort between governments, private companies, investors, civil society organizations, and other actors to promote innovation in systems, investments, and partnerships."In Panama, a new Fisheries and Aquaculture Law was adopted to encourage fishing, aquaculture, and blue fishing-related activities, ensuring that they are carried out in a sustainable manner, using appropriate methods that ensure the conservation, production, and marketing of these products, within an activity that benefits current and future generations," said Panama's Minister of Agricultural Development, Augusto Valderrama. Trinidad and Tobago's Minister of Agriculture, Lands, and Fisheries, Avinash Singh, said that "in the pursuit of sustainable management and development of our fisheries resources in Trinidad and Tobago, we are fortunate to collaborate with FAO in many areas of mutual interest, some of which include improving capacity for the adoption and implementation of the ecosystem approach to fisheries.Meanwhile, Jamaica's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, Floyd Green, argued that priority must be given to diversifying the livelihoods of small-scale fishers and fish farmers. "It is the only thing that can be done to reduce overfishing and support ecosystem management efforts throughout the region."The blue economy is one of Dominica's pillars of economic growth, said Roland Royer, the country's Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries."Collectively, we call on islands in the region to promote the sustainable use of marine resources in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 14 and 15. We endorse the regional protocol on the CARICOM Common Fisheries Policy for the sustainable use of living marine resources for blue economic growth and sustainable development, but much more is needed to boost the blue economy in the region."Vice Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture of Peru, Úrsula Desilú, said that her country "will continue with the implementation of actions that contribute to improving the sustainability of hydrobiological resources and will continue to face all upcoming challenges through innovative and beneficial means for our economic agents."The discussion document "Moving Towards the Sustainability of Fisheries and Aquaculture under the Blue Transformation Approach" was presented during the meeting. This document provides a clear and concise roadmap to guide implementation efforts aligned with FAO's Strategic Framework 2022-31.
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Press Release
27 March 2024
Haiti: Escalating violence and economic shocks compound hunger crisis
25 March 2024, Port-au-Prince/Santiago de Chile – Haiti is in the grip of a worsening humanitarian crisis, with nearly half of the population likely facing acute food insecurity, according to the latest Integrated Food Security Classification (IPC) analysis (IPC) . The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) warns of dire consequences unless urgent action is taken to address the root causes of this crisis.Around 4.97 million people are experiencing or will likely experience high levels of acute food insecurity between March and June 2024. Of these, 1.64 million people (17 percent of the analyzed population) are classified in IPC Phase 4 (Emergency), who are mostly concentrated in eight areas including the Artibonite valley, rural areas of La Grand’Anse, La Gonâve, the transverse part of the West and impoverished neighbourhoods Cité Soleil, Croix de Bouquets and Port-au-Prince. These figures show a stark deterioration of food security in Haiti, with 532,000 additional people experiencing acute food insecurity compared to previous estimates for the same period.The hunger crisis is fueled by a myriad of factors, including escalating armed gang violence, economic shocks, low agricultural yields, below-average rainfall, the lingering impacts of the August 2021 earthquake along with successive floods and reduced access to humanitarian aid.Violence perpetrated by armed groups has intensified in recent months, resulting in the internal displacement of approximately 362,000 people, including 50,000 displaced within the last three months, according to International Organization for Migration (IOM).This escalation in violence not only disrupts the circulation of goods and restricts access to markets but also inflates the prices of essential food items in an already fragile context. El Niño has compounded agricultural challenges, particularly affecting crop producers.Delays in the rainy season and rainfall deficits have significantly impacted the outcome of the 2023 spring season, typically representing half of the national agricultural production. Heavy rains and severe flooding in mid-November 2023 have damaged crops, homes and infrastructure. Local agricultural production deficits and market supply chain dysfunction have kept food prices high, hindering access to food. In 2023, agricultural production plummeted by around 39% for maize, 34% for rice and 22% for sorghum compared to the five-year average.Agriculture stands as a vital lifeline for Haitians, with over 75% of the most food-insecure people residing in rural areas. Urgent support is needed to boost agricultural and livestock production, ensuring the availability of and access to food for vulnerable farming families and communities.The Ministers and Vice-ministers of Latin America and the Caribbean, assembled at the38th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, held in the city ofGeorgetown, Guyana from 18 to 21 March, addressed Haiti´s situation and included a specific resolution on this topic: “We expressed solidarity with the Republic of Haiti for the deteriorating humanitarian situation that compromises the food security and nutrition, as well as the livelihoods of its population.”FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mario Lubetkin, said “We are consistent with the countries' demands regarding the priority we should give to Haiti´s critical situation”.FAO, with its local offices and teams actively present in the field, continues to closely monitor the situation and deliver essential agricultural support for the upcoming planting seasons. FAO is also ready to provide vulnerable populations, both displaced and residents, in urban and peri-urban areas of Port au Prince with critical assistance (i.e. cash transfers along with vegetable seeds and tools) to meet their basic needs and restore their agricultural livelihoods.Archive photographs:Photo 1Photo 2
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