Green Climate Fund: Form Cooperative societies, partner relevant stakeholders, Rural Farmers tasked 

By: Aminah Salako – Adekunle

Rural farmers have been advised to form cooperative groups and partner relevant stakeholders to access Green Climate Fund.

The fund will enable farmers embark on climate resilience projects, enhance agricultural productivity, food security and livelihood.

A Finance Expert, Mr. Chinedum Anowuru gave the advice at a One – Day Climate Finance Workshop under the Digisol Project of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin.

Mr. Anowuru explained that in view of the present change in climatic condition, farmers needed to practice Climate – Smart Agriculture, such as Agroforestry, conservation agriculture, solar powered irrigation, cultivate drought tolerant crops, to protect farming against climate hazards.

While delivering lecture titled “Purpose of Climate Finance for Rural Development” , the Kwara State Commissioner for Youth Development, Alh. Shehu Ndanusa explained that irregular rainfall, reduced crop yields, flooding, soil degradation among others are realities facing farmers, hence the need to embrace EU – Digisol for innovation, inclusiveness, and sustainability.

The Project Coordinator, Al-Hikmah University Ilorin, Dr. Tajudeen Ajala highlighted the importance of the train – the – trainee program to include bridging the gap between vulnerability and opportunity.

Earlier, in an address of welcome, the Chief Host and Vice Chancellor Al-Hikmah University, Prof. AbdulLateef Oladimeji, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Sikiru Nurudeen reiterated the institution determination to continue to support developmental initiatives and commended all partners of the project.

The event had in attendance the Digisol National Project Coordinator, Prof. Chinasaokwu Onyemauwa, government officials, representatives of fintech innovators, microfinance institutions, cooperative societies, agricultural NGOs.

The Green Climate Fund, GCF, is a global fund established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) to support developing countries, including Nigeria in their efforts to combat climate change.