Uganda & Global Partners Push for Blended Finance to Empower Women Climate Innovations.
The WICC2024 conference held on May 16, 2024 at Silver Springs Hotel Kampala with the theme Climate Financing for scaling women and youth led innovations was organized by Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) In collaboration with the Uganda ministry of water, environment and climate change department (CCD), the Deutsche Gesellschafts Fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and Makerere University business school. The conference convened over 500 attendees around the globe with important activities, including speeches from distinguished guests, panel discussions, awards, networking opportunities, and exhibitions.
The day kicked off with an interactive online poll by Dagmar Zwebe the country representative GGGI Uganda. Among the various questions asked was, “How do we increase financing for women in climate change”. This encouraged participation from all members in attendance and set the pace for the day.
Highlighting the need for practical climate solutions, Uganda’s state Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Anite Evelyn, highlighted that government of Uganda is commited to financing carbon market innovations and has commenced “greening” financial institutions and banks.
In his address, H.E. Amb. Tomas Anker Christensen, Denmark’s Climate Ambassador, emphasized the need for women in decision-making and negotiations in climate change. He additionally highlighted the need for expanding the energy sector and providing women with training opportunities within it.
Beatrice Anywar, the state minister for Water and Environment, emphasized the need for blended finance models and reiterated the government’s commitment to climate finance. She highlighted the need of forging strategic financial partnerships, enhancing research capabilities, and directing funds towards women-led initiatives.
“When you support a woman, you support the whole household.”-Beatrice Anywar state Minister water and Environment.
As participants departed, a sense of optimism and collective purpose filled the air. The WICC2024 conference undoubtedly served as a catalyst for change, paving the way for a future where women and youth can access the resources, they need to unlock their full potential and drive impactful climate solutions.
