In a spirit of collaboration and commitment to environmental sustainability, a meeting transpired between Mr. Nabil Ben Khatra, Executive Secretary of the Sahara and Sahel Observatory (OSS), and Hon. Viriato Luís Soares Cassamá, Minister of Environment, Biodiversity and Climate Action in Guinea-Bissau. The occasion, marked as a courtesy meeting, served as a platform to celebrate the successful cooperation between the Guinea Bissau Government and OSS in the critical realms of environment and climate change.
Mr. Ben Khatra expressed his gratitude to Minister Cassamá for his availability, emphasizing the shared desire to fortify the already flourishing collaboration between the OSS and the GNB Government. He noted that the partnership has evolved into a true alliance on matters pertaining to climate change and sustainable development.
A significant portion of the discussions revolved around the successful implementation of the APICA project, a flagship initiative jointly undertaken by the OSS and the Government of Guinea Bissau and the Executing Entity Ajuda de Desenvolvimento de Povo para Povo Guinea Bissau (ADPP). This project, financed by the Green Climate Fund, marks a historic milestone in launching the first-ever climate change adaptation endeavor in Guinea-Bissau. Mr. Ben Khatra and the OSS Secretariat welcomed the progress made, particularly highlighted by the official launch of the APICA project and showcased the coordinated efforts of all the stakeholders, solidifying their commitment to addressing climate change challenges in the region.
As the meeting progressed, the importance of continued collaboration was emphasized, especially regarding the need for a robust partnership in ensuring the effective implementation of the APICA project over the next five years which focuses on mangrove ecosystem restoration, improved livelihoods and the empowering of women to combat climate change impacts. The OSS Executive Secretary advocated for the Ministry's active involvement, recognizing its pivotal role in steering the project towards success.
In conclusion, the meeting between Mr. BEN KHATRA and Minister CASSAMÁ not only reinforced the existing cooperation between the OSS and the GNB Government but also laid the groundwork for an even stronger partnership in the pursuit of sustainable development and climate resilience in Guinea-Bissau.