Climate change is diverting Africa’s attention from the critical goal of eradicating poverty. The impacts of climate change are undermining collective efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
As countries work to meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and energy transition goals, the conservation and restoration of nature and biodiversity remain the most effective paths to mitigate and combat climate change. However, efforts to restore and preserve remaining biodiversity hotspots often overlook the engagement of indigenous peoples and local communities who bear the brunt of living in these environments. This neglect is costing the world dearly, as biodiversity loss accelerates and options for supporting livelihoods are eroded by the depletion of natural capital, reducing the potential benefits nature can provide to improve people’s lives.
There is evidence that if the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities are secured, governance systems are strengthened, and adequate funding are channeled directly to these communities, they can be the most effective allies in combating climate change. Empowered, they become the primary drivers of change from the ground up, transforming into a vital, living asset.
This is the message that ReGeCom and other Maliasili partners will share during the 2024 NYC Climate Week at the event: “Real Talks: Conservation Champions are Climate Champions.” We aim to amplify the voices of these guardians of nature so they can be included and play a central role in discussing and implementing nature-based solutions that ensure both people and nature thrive while meeting climate objectives.
I am grateful to Maliasili and African Nature-Based Tourism Platform to support my participation in NYC Climate Week in representation of ReGeCom. Throughout the event, I hope policy makers, donors, private sectors and all stakeholders understand that Indigenous Peoples and Local communities are part of the solution, let’s bring them to the table…for #peopleandnature. By José Monteiro, Executive Director
