2012-02-13 23:07:11 -

OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 02/13/12 -- Today, as part of Canada's international efforts to help developing countries adapt to the impacts of a changing climate, the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, and the Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of the Environment, launched the Canada Fund for African Climate Resilience.


"The Government of Canada recognizes the impact that climate has on the agricultural sector, food security and the economy in developing countries," said Minister Oda. "Through the Fund's call for substantive, focused proposals that will achieve demonstrable results, I believe that the best, innovative and sustainable projects will result in benefits for those who are meeting new and increasing challenges caused by the climate. This will mean a stronger and improved life for families and communities."



The Canada Fund is part of Canada's commitment to the Copenhagen Accord.


"The global challenge of climate change requires a global solution, and Canada is stepping up to the plate," said Minister Kent, "This funding further demonstrates our government's commitment to take real action to fight climate change, as opposed to the short-term symbolism of the past".


The $20 million Canada Fund call for proposals will select substantial projects that will demonstrably improve and increase food security and/or economic growth, within up to 14 African countries.


Backgrounder


The Canada Fund for African Climate Resilience aims to help African countries adapt to climate change and its impact on their economic growth and food security. The Canada Fund will support projects in up to 14 African countries that include protection of infrastructure, irrigation systems or ports.


The Fund will support proposals that maximize sustainability, innovation and effective development principles to address critical climate change issues. The proposals must be substantive in scope, self-sustaining once in operation, and achieve demonstrable results and outcomes.


All eligible proposals will be reviewed by a panel that will include experts in the fields of development, climate change, agriculture, and economic growth. The panel will make recommendations to the Minister of International Cooperation.


Each proposal submitted is to include only one project to be implemented in only one country from among the following eligible countries in Africa:


Ethiopia, Ghana, Mali, Mozambique, Senegal, Tanzania, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Zambia.


The deadline for submission is noon (12:00), Pacific Standard Time, April 19, 2012.


The $20 million Canada Fund is part of Canada's Copenhagen commitments.



Contacts:

Justin Broekema

Press Secretary to the Minister of International Cooperation

819-953-6238
justin.broekema@acdi-cida.gc.ca :


Media Relations Office

Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)

819-953-6534
media@acdi-cida.gc.ca :