ADB to Help Reduce Climate Change Risks In Tonga

ADB to Help Reduce Climate Change Risks In Tonga

NUKU’ALOFA, TONGA (15 May 2013) – A consultation workshop held today will help develop a project proposal to address climate change risk priorities identified in the Joint National Action Plan on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management.

“All lives and livelihoods will be significantly affected by climate change,” said Lord Ma'afu, Minister for Lands, Environment, Climate Change & Natural Resources, at the opening of today’s workshop. “Tonga has a 50% chance of experiencing an annual economic loss exceeding $175 million and casualties exceeding 440 people, due to extreme natural events,” he said at the event.

Attended by senior government officials, the private sector and civil society representatives, the workshop updated stakeholders about the status of the project being prepared to help Tonga manage climate related events. A technical assistance team from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is helping Tonga formulate and implement its Strategic Program for Climate Resilience.

“The workshop is an opportunity for us to receive important feedback from participants, which will be key in developing a strong project design and will facilitate implementation,” said Maria Paniagua, ADB Project Team leader.

The Strategic Program for Climate Resistance is a pilot program under the Climate Investment Fund (CIF), a multi-donor Trust Fund. In Tonga, the CIF is financed by ADB. Tonga is one of only three countries in the Pacific Islands selected for the pilot program and was chosen for its high level of vulnerability to climate hazards and risks.

Tonga is the recipient of $57 million in loans, $37 million in grants and $20 million in technical assistance since joining ADB in 1972.

ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth and regional integration. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members – 48 from the region. In 2012, ADB assistance totaled $21.6 billion, including cofinancing of $8.3 billion.

ENDS

© Scoop Media