25/09/2025
September 25, 2025 β Eco Climate Initiative - ECI (ECI), in close collaboration with the Environment Protection Agency - EPA of Liberia and UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), successfully concluded a one-day workshop on climate change adaptation and gender inclusion.
The event, held on Wednesday, September 24th at the Liberia Learning Center, Empowerment Square, brought together a diverse group of government officials, development partners, youth leaders, and civil society organizations (CSOs). The central goal was to strengthen locally-led climate action by ensuring the voices of women, youth, and marginalized groups are heard and integrated into national planning such as LoCAL.
The workshop highlighted Liberia's significant vulnerability to climate change, a point underscored by Hon. Anthony S. Kollie of the EPA, who noted the country's ranking on the Notre-Dame Global Adaptation Index. He emphasized that "women, children, and marginalized groups bear the brunt of climate impacts but also bring valuable knowledge and leadership to local adaptation efforts"βa core principle of ECIβs mission.
A key presentation by Dr. Peter G. Mulbah, UNCDF Country Coordinator, focused on the Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility (LoCAL) Mechanism. This model, which ECI supports in promoting, is crucial for directing climate finance directly to local communities, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in critical sessions focused on:
Β· Defining the roles of gender, youth, and CSOs in achieving Liberiaβs national climate goals (NDCs).
Β· Brainstorming concrete responsibilities for women, youth, and people living with disabilities in adaptation planning.
Β· Developing strategies to unlock climate finance specifically for youth-led and women-led initiatives.
Eco Climate Initiative is proud to have helped facilitate this important dialogue. The active participation and pledges from attendees to champion inclusive climate action in their communities mark a significant step forward. We remain committed to our partnership with the EPA and UNCDF to build resilient, inclusive, and empowered communities across Liberia.
The workshop concluded with a reinforced commitment from all partners to ensure that local actors remain at the forefront of driving Liberiaβs climate resilience agenda.