The GEF, or Global Environment Facility, established the GEF Assembly Challenge Program to showcase and support community projects related to climate and nature, or unique contributions of indigenous peoples, women, girls, and youth. Organizations selected for this program receive grants of up to $100,000 and gain access to networking, training, and knowledge exchange opportunities. The call for initiatives was launched during the 7th GEF Assembly, a quadrennial event that brings together environmental leaders from over 185 countries.
Thanks to this initiative, the Tunisian association Les Amis du Capte has been chosen to receive additional funding to sustain its mission of climate resilience through agroforestry around carob trees.
©Gef-assembly
For the past three years, the association benefited from IUCN funds through the TransCap1 and PPI OSCAN3 programs to establish agroecosystems around carob cultivation and enhance the biodiversity of farms in the governorates of Bizerte and Kef . Known for their resilience and adaptation to the effects of climate change, agroforestry systems will enrich biotopes, provide food and habitat for certain animal species, and store water and carbon.
In addition to planting and restoring lands, the association is creating a space for training and knowledge-sharing among farmers on best agricultural practices. This includes limiting the use of chemical inputs, protecting the soil, reducing the overexploitation of natural resources (especially water), and increasing the productivity of agricultural operations.
This new partnership highlights the recognized role of civil society organizations in addressing current environmental challenges through a community-based approach. Similar to the GEF and IUCN, many foundations are choosing to invest in local organizations with adaptation capabilities, a deep understanding of on-the-ground realities, and the potential for participatory solutions with the population.
To know more about the association’s projects: Amis du Capte
