The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has introduced the Climate Action Window (CAW) Technical Assistance Facility in a move to tackle climate vulnerability across Africa. Launched at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, this initiative is designed to bridge the climate finance gap for 37 low-income African nations.
With an initial funding pool of $56 million, the Climate Action Window will support the development, financing, and execution of climate adaptation and mitigation projects. These projects align with the Paris Agreement, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), aiming to enhance resilience against climate shocks.
The Climate Action Window, established under the African Development Fund’s 16th replenishment cycle, directs 75% of its funding to adaptation projects, 15% to mitigation, and 10% to technical assistance. Project proposals, which are open to governments, NGOs, UN agencies, and regional organizations, can secure grants ranging from $260,000 to $1.3 million through an online application process until February 5, 2025.
This initiative has already identified 80 potential projects valued at $800 million, with 41 projects funded. Partnerships with key climate funds, including the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Global Environment Facility (GEF), are set to amplify the impact of CAW’s efforts.
The launch has drawn support from international donors, including the UK, Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland. Louise Walker from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office highlighted the significance of CAW:
“There is no pipeline like this in Africa. We invite other partners to join and surpass our contribution, setting a new benchmark for climate finance.” she said.
Read: African Development Bank Seeks Increased Climate Finance for Africa at COP29
African leaders have also praised the initiative for its potential to transform climate resilience. Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Environment, Assahoré Konan Jacques, emphasized the importance of targeted actions to protect vulnerable communities. Similarly, Chad’s Minister for Economy, Fatima Haram Acyl, stressed the urgency of delivering solutions for countries grappling with floods, droughts, and economic losses.
Dr. Kevin Kariuki, AfDB’s Vice President for Power, Energy, and Climate Change, emphasized the facility’s transformative potential.
“The CAW provides a veritable channel for countries to meet their global climate commitments. This facility will ensure that projects in Africa’s most climate-vulnerable regions are well positioned to attract significant funding, creating a win-win scenario where countries can achieve climate targets, while advancing sustainable development.” he noted.
