20/11/2025
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‎At on yesterday we hosted a side event at under the theme “From Grassroots to Green Funds: Unlocking Direct Access to Climate Finance for Local Women Organizations.”
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‎The session was moderated by Yundeh A. Butler, Executive Director of LIRWOCA, and brought together influential women leaders driving climate advocacy across Africa and beyond. Panelists included Anne Tek, Climate Justice Coordinator at FEMNET; Rabab Aloui, representing the UNEP Women Major Group; and Faith Mukami John from the Youth Negotiators Academy.
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‎Delivering the opening remarks, Norwu Kolu Harris from ActionAid Liberia emphasized the importance of inclusive gender-responsive planning, stressing that women and local communities must receive fair access to climate finance.
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‎Speaking during the discussion, Rabab Aloui highlighted that pushing for strong women-and-gender action plans is essential, especially during the implementation phase of climate commitments. She noted that financial support should not be viewed as “begging for money,” but rather as ensuring that grassroots women receive the resources needed to drive real change.
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‎Anne Tek, Climate Justice Coordinator at FEMNET, called for stronger advocacy mechanisms and information platforms for women. She stated that the current allocation of only 10% of climate finance toward women-focused initiatives is inadequate, arguing that it should be increased to at least 50% given the critical role women play in climate solutions. She further stressed the need for effective tracking of COP commitments.
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‎Representing the Youth Negotiators Academy, Faith Mukami John from Kenya underscored the need for increased capacity-building for women to meaningfully participate in climate finance discussions. She emphasized that women are protectors of forests, water, and natural resources not just beneficiaries of finance. She therefore urged COP processes to prioritize women and honor commitments made to local communities.
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‎Panelists also highlighted persistent barriers that prevent women from accessing climate finance, including bureaucracy, lack of information, cultural norms, and limited funding opportunities.
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‎Local women leaders concluded with a call for more grants, stronger commitments, and recognition of the vital role women play in addressing climate change.
Conservation International, Liberia
Actionaid Liberia UN Women Liberia UK in Liberia - British Embassy, Monrovia Embassy of Sweden in Monrovia Environment Protection Agency - EPA
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