UN Global Environment Facility Assembly
5 September 2006
Last week South Africa successfully hosted the third Global Environment Facility - the GEF - Assembly, in Cape Town. Not only did we demonstrate our ability to host major international events, but this event also contributed an estimated R16,3 million to the national economy. The international donor community have shown their continued support: 32 countries have pledged to contribute US$3, 13 billion, which will be dedicated to environmental projects over the next four years.
The GEF was established 15 years ago and its projects address six complex environmental issues: biodiversity, climate change, international waters, land degradation, the ozone layer, and persistent organic pollutants.
South Africa is putting GEF funds to use in projects such as the Maluti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation Area, which is receiving US$15 million, and the Greater Addo Elephant National Park Project, which is receiving US$5,8 million.
The ANC endorses the call made by delegates from developing countries for more resources to be dedicated to the implementation of multilateral environmental agreements, and that these are managed and allocated in a more equitable manner.
J CHALMERS
ANC Member of Parliament
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