Fostering Collaboration for Climate Governance: ISEC Cameroon Participates in Green Accountability Workshop In Bamenda (North West Region of Cameroon)
Strengthening Green Accountability and Climate Governance in the North West Region of Cameroon
On December 19-20, 2024, a transformative workshop on green accountability and climate governance was held at the North West Regional Assembly Auditorium in Bamenda, Cameroon. Organized by the Community Initiative for Sustainable Development (COMINSUD) in collaboration with the Regional Delegation of Environment, Protection of Nature, and Sustainable Development, the event brought together stakeholders from government, civil society organizations (CSOs), the private sector, and local communities. With financial support from the World Resources Institute (WRI), the workshop aimed to foster transparent and inclusive climate action in the region.
The workshop opened with remarks from key officials, including the City Mayor of Bamenda, the Honourable President of the North West Regional Assembly, and representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection, and Sustainable Development (MINEPDED). The tone was set for a two-day dialogue on improving climate governance, ensuring green accountability, and exploring innovative approaches to climate financing.
One of the highlights of the first day was the presentation of the Sisia Resistant Neighbourhoods Project. This initiative aims to address the pressing challenges of slum upgrading, sustainable water access, and environmental management, particularly in vulnerable areas like Sisia. The project exemplifies community-driven solutions that align with national strategies on slum development and climate change. Additionally, presentations by COMINSUD and MINEPDED delved into the importance of aligning local climate action with national frameworks, including Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and REDD+ strategies.
Day two focused on group discussions and collaborative planning. Participants, including representatives from ISEC Bamenda, identified priority actions for fostering green accountability at both regional and local levels. Through interactive group work, participants developed action plans that emphasized the need for strengthened collaboration among decentralized authorities, CSOs, and private sector stakeholders. The session also highlighted the necessity of making climate financing more inclusive and accessible, particularly for grassroots initiatives.
A recurring theme throughout the workshop was the vital role of decentralized authorities in driving climate governance. Local governments, in partnership with CSOs and the private sector, were urged to take a more active role in implementing and monitoring climate initiatives. The discussions culminated in the drafting of a regional action plan, which will serve as a roadmap for improving climate governance and green accountability in the North West Region. This plan is expected to enhance communication and coordination among stakeholders, ensuring that efforts are both transparent and impactful.
The workshop underscored the growing focus on aligning local actions with global climate commitments, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also emphasized the importance of community-based solutions in addressing climate challenges. The Sisia Resistant Neighbourhoods Project was particularly celebrated as a model for integrating environmental management and social equity in climate governance.
As a representative of ISEC Bamenda, I found the workshop to be a valuable platform for learning and networking. The insights gained will significantly inform our ongoing advocacy for green accountability and sustainable climate action in the region. By leveraging the knowledge and connections established during this event, ISEC Bamenda aims to play a pivotal role in implementing the workshop's outcomes.
Key Recommendations
The workshop concluded with several actionable recommendations:
Capacity Building: There is a need for continuous training and awareness programs on climate finance and green accountability for local stakeholders. Building the technical capacity of CSOs and local authorities is essential for effective climate governance.
Enhanced Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships among decentralized authorities, CSOs, and private sector stakeholders will be critical for advancing climate action. Joint efforts can ensure that initiatives are more inclusive and impactful.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing mechanisms to track progress on green accountability and climate governance initiatives will help ensure transparency and accountability in implementation.
The workshop was a call to action for all stakeholders to commit to sustainable and inclusive climate action. As ISEC Bamenda, we are dedicated to working alongside regional and local partners to translate the workshop's vision into tangible progress. Together, we can build a resilient and sustainable future for the North West Region of Cameroon.
Report By : Ndifon Silas Ngum
Edited By : Harrison Ashangwa
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