Ministerial visit to the Jobs Skills and Finance (JSF) Programme for Women and Youth site at Manduar in Lower River Region

The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Minister of Energy and Minister of Agriculture and Governor of Lower River Region (LRR) visited some of the project sites for Jobs, Skills and Finance (JSF) Programme for Women and Youth Programme implemented by UNCDF and Ministry of Lands through Department of Community Development and Ministry of Environment. The programme is financially supported by European Union (EU).

The objective was to showcase some of the successes for the Locally-Led Climate Adaptation project at Julafaar Ward in the Lower River Region. The programme through Local Climate Living Facility (LoCAL) approach has created over 800 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) jobs particularly targeting 75% women and youth through Cash for Work in construction of local infrastructure, climate-smart agriculture and rehabilitation of ecosystem.  The programme has also enhanced access to financial services through opening of bank accounts and mobile wallets and also savings and loan facilities for cash for work beneficiaries.

Following the visit, The Minister of Environment highlighted the relevance of the LoCAL mechanism in enhancing local community participation in identification, preparation and implementation of climate priorities for their communities. The mechanism is also commended by the ministry in its effort to complement government’s effort in achieving their overarching objectives related to climate adaptation. He also expressed his Ministry’s willingness to continue its support for LoCAL expansion.