Funding Available to Protect the Environment, Improve Food Production and Promote Public Health in Cape Verde
Cape Verde, an archipelago with limited resources and vulnerable to climate change, faces significant challenges in protecting the environment, ensuring food security and promoting public health. Fortunately, there are a number of funding opportunities available to support initiatives that address these crucial issues. This article explores the sources of funding, the types of eligible projects and how organisations and individuals in Cape Verde can access these resources.
The Triple Challenge: Environment, Food and Health
The interconnection between the environment, food production and public health is undeniable. Environmental degradation affects the quality of water and soil, impacting agricultural production and, consequently, the nutrition and health of the population. Food insecurity, in turn, can lead to chronic health problems and increase vulnerability to disease. In Cape Verde, these challenges are exacerbated by water scarcity, desertification and dependence on food imports.
Impact of Climate Change
Climate change poses an existential threat to Cape Verde. Rising sea levels, intensifying droughts and the occurrence of extreme weather events such as storms and floods affect agriculture, fisheries and health infrastructure. Adapting to and mitigating climate change are therefore urgent priorities.
Financing Sources for Sustainable Projects
Several organisations and programmes offer funding for projects aimed at protecting the environment, improving food production and promoting public health in Cape Verde. These sources include:
- International funds:
- Green Climate Fund (GCF): It finances climate change adaptation and mitigation projects in developing countries.
- Global Environment Facility (GEF): It supports projects related to biodiversity, climate change, land degradation, international waters and chemicals.
- European Union (EU): It offers funding through various programmes, such as the Multi-Year Indicative Programme (MIP) and the European Development Fund (EDF).
- Bilateral Development Agencies:
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID): It supports projects in areas such as health, agriculture and the environment.
- German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ): It focuses on sustainable development, including renewable energy, natural resource management and health.
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs):
- Conservation International: It supports biodiversity conservation projects and the sustainable management of natural resources.
- Oxfam: It works to combat poverty and injustice, including projects related to food security and health.
- Private and philanthropic initiatives:
- Foundations such as the Rockefeller Foundation and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation invest in health and agricultural projects in developing countries.
Types of Eligible Projects
The projects eligible for funding vary depending on the source, but generally include:
- Environmental protection:
- Marine and terrestrial biodiversity conservation projects.
- Initiatives to reforest and combat desertification.
- Sustainable water resource management projects.
- Implementation of renewable energies (solar, wind).
- Improving Food Production:
- Promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices.
- Development of efficient irrigation systems.
- Support for sustainable fishing and aquaculture.
- Strengthening agricultural value chains.
- Public Health Promotion:
- Improved access to drinking water and basic sanitation.
- Nutrition programmes and combating malnutrition.
- Strengthening health systems and disease prevention.
- Health education and promoting healthy habits.
Examples of Successful Projects in Cape Verde
Several projects in Cape Verde have already demonstrated the potential of funded initiatives to generate positive impact:
- Solar energy project in Santiago: The installation of solar panels in rural communities has enabled access to clean electricity and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.
- Conservation Agriculture Programme in Santo Antão: The adoption of conservation agricultural practices, such as no-till farming and soil cover, has increased agricultural productivity and reduced soil erosion.
- Basic Sanitation Initiative in São Vicente: The construction of latrines and water treatment systems has improved hygiene conditions and reduced the incidence of water-borne diseases.
How to Access Financing
The process of accessing finance can be complex, but a few tips can increase your chances of success:
- Identify the relevant sources of funding: Search for organisations and programmes that offer funding for projects in Cape Verde and that align with the objectives of your project.
- Develop a solid project proposal: Draw up a clear, concise and well-founded proposal that demonstrates the potential impact of the project and its viability
Protect the planet, boost food production and strengthen public health! Funding available now. Find out more and apply: Click here.
Application deadline: 15 June 2025.
