The National Assembly has thrown its weight behind NNPC Limited’s ongoing efforts to boost Nigeria’s crude oil production and grow its reserves, saying it will consider stiffer consequences for crude oil thieves and vandals of the nation’s critical hydrocarbon infrastructure.
Management of the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS) in a group photograph with members of the National Assembly Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) during an oversight visit by the Joint Committee to the NUIMS Headquarters in Lagos, on Tuesday
This was made known when the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) paid an oversight visit on the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), an upstream arm of the NNPC Ltd, at its headquarters in Lagos, on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
Jointly led by the Committee Chairmen from both chambers, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams and Alhassan Ado Doguwa, the legislators described the menace of crude oil theft and vandalism of critical oil and gas infrastructure as major challenges to Nigeria’s revenue generation and budget targets, which must be curtailed.
In his remarks, Senator Williams said it was imperative for the National Assembly to come up with legislative action that will help stop crude oil theft and increase Nigeria’s crude oil production.
He said that, from what they found at NUIMS, it is duty-bound on the legislature to come up with decisive measures that will help the government to achieve its set targets in the oil and gas sector.
On his part, Doguwa said that by virtue of their duties as a legislature, the lawmakers will fast-track the strengthening of a legislative framework to be able to check the excesses bedeviling the nation’s oil and gas sector.
Doguwa, who commended NNPC Ltd’s efforts for its industry-wide security collaboration against the nation’s hydrocarbon infrastructure, said more needs to be done to ensure the company increased Nigeria’s crude oil production and grow its reserves.
He said the legislature will consider deploying the stick and carrot approach towards addressing the issue, but where it becomes necessary, the stick approach must be emphasised to rise vehemently against any encumbrance standing in the way of Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
Earlier in his detailed presentation to the lawmakers, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer (CUIO) of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Bala Wunti, described NUIMS as a trustee of Nigeria’s upstream investments which ensures the country maximises returns through effective supervision of its Joint Venture (JV), Production Sharing Contracts (PSC) and Service Contracts (SC) operating partners.
Wunti, who commended the lawmakers for their consistent support to the NNPC Ltd, said engagements with the National Assembly are crucial as they will help the NNPC Ltd in the attainment of its mandate.
“We are here to see how the NASS will help us produce more barrels and deliver value to our shareholders. Increasing production is the new narrative and your support is needed to enable us to achieve our set targets based on our key principles of safety, speed, compliance and efficiency,” Wunti informed the legislators.
He said that, so far, the industry-wide security collaboration against crude oil theft and vandalism of Nigeria’s critical hydrocarbon infrastructure through the four-way strategy of “Detect, Deter, Respond and Recover” have been instrumental in the recent restoration of some of the nation’s lost barrels.
As environmental, technological and societal change join forces to disrupt human and planetary health, the world must get better at tracking and responding to a host of emerging challenges, according to a new report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Science Council (ISC).
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. Photo credit: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images
The shifts include humanity’s degradation of the natural world, the rapid development of technologies such as AI, competition for natural resources, widening inequalities and declining trust in institutions. These shifts are creating a polycrisis, in which global crises are amplifying, accelerating and synchronising – with huge implications for human and planetary wellbeing.
Eighteen accompanying signals of change – identified by hundreds of global experts through regional and stakeholder consultations that included youth – offer a deeper glimpse into potential disruptions, both positive and negative, that the world must prepare for.
“As the impacts of multiple crises intensify, now is the time to get ahead of the curve and protect ourselves from emerging challenges,” said UNEP Executive Director, Inger Andersen. “The rapid rate of change, uncertainty and technological developments we’re seeing, against a backdrop of geopolitical turbulence, means any country can be thrown off course more easily and more often.
“By monitoring signals of change and using the foresight approach outlined in this report – including looking outside the traditional environmental space – the world can avoid repeating mistakes of the past and focus on solutions that can withstand future disruption.”
Signals of change
Key shifts and signals of change outlined in the report include:
The demand for critical rare earth elements, minerals and metals to fuel the transition to net-zero is expected to increase fourfold by 2040, increasing calls for deep sea mining and even space mining. This poses potential threats to nature and biodiversity, could increase pollution and waste, and spark more conflicts.
As permafrost thaws on a warming planet, ancient organisms that may be pathogenic could be released, resulting in major environmental, animal and human impacts. This phenomenon has already led to an outbreak of anthrax in Siberia.
While AI and digital transformation can bring benefits, there are environmental implications – such as increased demand for critical minerals and rare earth elements and water resources to meet data centre demands. The use of AI in weapons systems and military applications, and the development of synthetic biology, need careful review through an environmental lens.
Armed conflict and violence are rising and evolving. These conflicts result in ecosystem degradation and pollution, leading to repercussions for vulnerable populations.
Forced displacement is increasing human health and environmental impacts. One in every 69 people is now forcibly displaced – nearly double the figures from a decade ago. Conflict and climate change are key drivers.
Adopting foresight
However, the report finds that using foresight tools can help the world to anticipate and prepare for the next emerging challenges and future disruptions.
Peter Gluckman, President of the ISC, said, “Foresight provides a useful set of tools to step outside of short-termism to help identify future opportunities and risks provided that it is done in a truly pluralistic manner, transcending narrow institutional mandates, sectors and other artificial divides that constrain our framing of the problems and the solutions.”
The report recommends adopting a new social contract that engages a diverse range of stakeholders, including indigenous people; giving young people a stronger voice; and rethinking measures of progress to go beyond GDP.
Governments and societies can also introduce shorter term targets and indicators that allow them to be more agile in governance. Ushering in tools and actions to reconfigure financial systems and reroute capital flows – a positive signal of change in the report – could help to reduce inequalities, eradicate extreme poverty and address environmental crises.
Supporting agile and adaptive governance would require better monitoring and assessment of interventions. This includes integrating and improving monitoring on environmental change, and making data and knowledge more accessible.
Just as the impacts of multiple crises are amplifying harm to environmental and human health, the solutions are in sight and actions are underway that would address the global shifts and signals of change identified in the report. Foresight can help to accelerate these actions and spark many more.
The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project will be timely completed, saying rainfalls will not affect pace of work.
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road
The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos State, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, gave the assurance in an interview on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, in Lagos.
Kesha said, “Despite the fact that heavy rain can naturally slow construction progress, the Federal Ministry of Works is committed to ensuring the project is delivered as scheduled.
“We have measures in place to manage water levels and ensure stay progress of work in spite the weather challenges.’’
The controller of works added that the contractors have been instructed to work diligently to ensure the project met its design and completion deadline.
According to her, the project is vital to the federal government as it is listed as one of the flagship projects of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration due to its significant benefits to the region.
The Minister of Works, Chief Dave Umahi, had said that the 700 kilometres Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway construction would take eight years to complete and pegged at the cost of N4 billion per kilometre.
The highway project will be completed in phases, with the first phase starting from Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island to Lekki Phase 1.
According to the ministry, the first phase which is about 1.5 kilometres long has been completed by Hitech Construction Company.
The project is to improve cross-country connectivity and foster trade relations and is expected to commence from Victoria Island in Lagos to Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, and cut across Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa-Ibom states.
“The Lagos portion of the project is designed to pass through Oniru Beach, Landmark Beach, and the Good Beach/Sol Beach spanning about 2.5km.’’
Chinese researchers on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, said they had discovered a new fern species in south China, and named it Cyrtomium adenotrichum.
A Cyrtomium adenotrichum found on a cliff in Nandan County, Hechi City, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Photo credit: Guangxi Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmaceutical Science
The researchers found 10 wild Cyrtomium adenotrichum on a cliff in Nandan County under Hechi City, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
This is according to the Guangxi Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmaceutical Science.
The findings, recently published in PhytoKeys, an international journal of plant taxonomy, revealed that the new species belongs to the family Dryopteridaceae and the genus Cyrtomium.
The plant has a height ranging from 5 to 15cm.
The species features a sparsely glandular leaf axis, a unique structure that easily distinguishes it from other species in the genus Cyrtomium.
Due to its rarity, small population and fragile habitat, the researchers classified the species as critically endangered based on the criteria set by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species.
Research on the biological, ecological and medicinal value of the species will be further conducted, according to the researchers.
The digital age has reshaped how we consume and disseminate information, with online media playing a crucial role in shaping public perception and opinion.
Participants at the NIMC-GOCOP Lagos Roundtable
Recognising this, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), with support from the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) Project, recently organised a two-day roundtable with online newspaper publishers in Nigeria.
The Roundtable, held in two batches, at Lagos and Abuja, respectively, provided participants the opportunity to understand and appreciate the activities, strategy, approach, achievements, and challenges of NIMC. It was the first of its kind, since the establishment of the commission.
This collaborative initiative underscores the importance of dialogue between regulatory bodies and media stakeholders in shaping the future of identity management in the country. It marks a significant step toward enhancing communication, collaboration, and mutual understanding between NIMC and digital media stakeholders.
The roundtable, themed “Building Trust and Collaboration in the Digital Age: Enhancing Communication Between NIMC and Online Publishers,” aimed to bridge the gap between NIMC and the digital media.
It provided an opportunity for NIMC to articulate its mandate, vision, activities, and achievements directly to the publishers while addressing some misconceptions surrounding its operations. The roundtable laid the foundation for future interactions and collaborative efforts.
The event was also designed to foster a partnership that leverages the strengths of online media to support NIMC’s mission and to ensure accurate dissemination of information.
In her opening remarks at the event, NIMC Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with the media to combat misinformation and to enhance the visibility of NIMC’s efforts.
“As we gather here today, we are united by a common goal: to build formidable bridges between the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the influential voices of the online media landscape.
“In the digital age, the influence of online media cannot be overstated. The internet has become a primary source of information for many, particularly the youth. However, it is also a breeding ground for misinformation and rumours, which can severely impact the reputation and trust in organisations.
“Our focus today is to address the dual role of online publishers – as key partners in disseminating accurate information and as potential sources of misconceptions. We recognize that while you have the power to amplify our successes, there is also the potential for misunderstandings that can spread rapidly.
“This Roundtable aims to forge a partnership that leverages your strengths to support our mission while ensuring that any misconceptions are promptly and accurately addressed.
“Pursuant to our commitment to transparency and accountability, we have instituted robust mechanisms for participation, grievance redress, and regular monitoring to enhance operational performance and mitigate social risks.
“Let me also use this medium to remind you all that enrolment for the National Identification Number (NIN) is free of charge in Nigeria.
“Taking advantage of this meeting, we hope to provide you with comprehensive insights into NIMC’s activities, objectives, strategies, achievements, and challenges. This knowledge is vital for you to disseminate accurate information to the public.
“It is also expected that we discuss your roles in the forthcoming NIMC Ecosystem Enrolment exercise, ensuring you understand how you can contribute to this national effort.
“Let me use this medium to, once again, reassure Nigerians, at home, and in the diaspora that robust measures are in place to safeguard the nation’s database from cyber threats. Under my leadership, NIMC has an unwavering commitment to upholding ethical standards in data protection. Cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies are in place to protect the database.”
Earlier in her remarks, Coordinator, Project Implementation Unit, Nigeria Digital ID4D Project, Tito Ejenavi, highlighted the project’s development objective – to increase the number of persons with a National Identity Number (NIN) through a robust and inclusive foundational identity system.
“By strengthening our national identity infrastructure, we aim to bolster Nigeria’s digital economy, enhance data protection, and close the inclusion gaps that hinder access to identification and related key services,” she explained.
Also, in his remarks, Deputy President, Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) and Publisher of NewsdiaryOnline, Danlami Nmodu, pledged the continued support and collaboration of online publishers to the commission.
The roundtable featured a series of presentations, interactive sessions, and case studies, aimed at educating participants about NIMC’s operations, strategy, achievements, and plans.
Notable presentations included “NIMC: Mandate, Approach, Operations and Strategy” by Festus Esangbedo and “Understanding Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote’s 5-Point Agenda for NIMC” by Dr. Alvan Ikoku.
Others are: “Front End Partners in NIN Enrolment: Essence, Approach, Benefits and Challenges”, by Carolyne Folami; “Nigeria Digital ID4D Project and the Ecosystem Enrolment”, by Chinenye Chizea’; “Improvements to NIMC Infrastructure: Implications to Data Integrity, Privacy and Security”, by Chinenye Chizea, and “Online Publishers and Realization of the NIMC Mandate”, By Dr. Walter Duru.
These sessions provided comprehensive insights into the commission’s efforts to maintain a secure, robust and inclusive national identity system.
For online publishers, the roundtable underscored the importance of their role in the national identity management ecosystem. As digital gatekeepers, they have the power to shape narratives and influence public perceptions. The collaboration with NIMC presents an opportunity to enhance their reporting with accurate and comprehensive information directly from the source.
The NIMC’s engagement with online publishers is a strategic move to enhance transparency and build public trust in the National Identity Number (NIN) system. By involving the media, NIMC can ensure accurate and timely dissemination of information, addressing public concerns and misinformation about the digital identity process.
The roundtable provided an opportunity for NIMC to clarify its objectives, challenges, and progress. Online publishers, armed with this knowledge, can produce more informed and insightful content, fostering a more supportive and educated public opinion. This improved understanding can lead to more nuanced reporting, highlighting the benefits and addressing the drawbacks of the NIN system.
As the media amplify the discussions from the roundtable, the general populace stands to benefit from increased awareness about the importance of digital identity. This awareness is crucial for driving the widespread adoption of the NIN, which is essential for the success of various government initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and socio-economic development.
Feedback from online publishers provided NIMC with valuable insights into public sentiment and practical challenges faced by citizens. This collaborative feedback loop can inform policy adjustments and operational improvements, ensuring that the NIN system evolves to meet the needs and expectations of Nigerians effectively.
The outcomes of the roundtable were promising, with enhanced understanding of NIMC’s mandate and activities, strengthened relationships, and the establishment of effective communication bridges between NIMC and online publishers.
To sustain this momentum, several next steps were identified, such as establishing regular communication channels between NIMC and online publishers to ensure continuous engagement and prompt resolution of issues, periodic meetings, among others.
The time has therefore come for NIMC to create a structured framework for ongoing collaboration with online media. This can lead to sustained media support and effective dissemination of information about NIMC’s initiatives.
A comprehensive public education campaign, supported by the media, is essential for demystifying the NIN process and highlighting its benefits.
NIMC, in collaboration with online publishers, can develop and disseminate educational content that addresses common misconceptions and encourages participation in the digital identity system.
Organising training sessions for online publishers and other media stakeholders on NIMC’s systems and processes will enhance their understanding and reporting accuracy.
By working together, NIMC and online publishers can enhance the visibility, trust, and goodwill of the commission, ensuring that accurate and effective information reaches the public.
No doubt, NIMC’s roundtable with online publishers represents a forward-thinking approach to governance and stakeholder engagement. It highlights the importance of collaboration between national institutions and digital media in fostering a well-informed and inclusive society.
This initiative is not only timely but also critical, given the increasing reliance on digital platforms for information dissemination. It sets the stage for improved public awareness and education on the importance of digital identity.
This partnership is not just beneficial to NIMC but also aligns with the social responsibility obligation of online publishers to inform and educate the public accurately.
As we move forward, sustained engagement, technological innovation, and comprehensive public education will be key to unlocking the full potentials of the NIN and ensuring that it serves as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s digital future.
With the foundation laid for a productive relationship, the future looks promising for NIMC and the online media community.
All hands must be on deck!
By Dr. Chike Walter Duru, an Associate Professor of Mass Communication, communication expert and Public Relations strategist; walterchike@gmail.com
International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI Africa), a Lagos-based environmental organisation, recently organised an insightful workshop in Enugu, Nigeria, aimed at educating local government stakeholders on effective emission reduction strategies. The workshop, held on July 12, 2024, brought together key representatives from Enugu North, Enugu South, Enugu East, and Nkanu West.
Participants at the ICCDI Africa Enugu workshop
The event began with an opening address by the Executive Director of ICCDI Africa, Olumide Idowu, who highlighted the urgent need for collective action to combat climate change and its detrimental effects on the environment. Idowu emphasised the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing sustainable practices to safeguard the planet’s future.
During the workshop, experts delivered engaging presentations on emission reduction strategies tailored to the specific context of Enugu LG. These strategies encompassed a range of sectors, including transportation, energy, waste management, and agriculture. Participants gained valuable insights into the potential impact of adopting sustainable practices in these areas and the benefits they can bring to the local community.
In recent times, ICCDI Africa organised a workshop that lasted for two days and was attended by stakeholders from a variety of local government areas in the state of Enugu. The objective of the workshop was to achieve a greater level of awareness regarding climate change and the reduction of emissions.
Stakeholders from the local government areas of Enugu North, Enugu South, Enugu East, and Nkanu West participated in the workshop, which was a collaborative effort to solve the knowledge gap about the mitigation of climate change. This exhibited a commitment to combating climate change that was shared by all parties. Those local governments who were chosen to participate in the workshop were also given the opportunity to incorporate net-zero initiatives into their respective climate policies and programmes.
Furthermore, the workshop showcased successful case studies from other regions successfully implementing emission reduction strategies. These case studies inspired Enugu LG stakeholders and demonstrated that positive change is attainable with the right mindset and commitment. The workshop also facilitated networking opportunities, allowing participants to establish connections and explore potential collaborations for future sustainability projects.
Idowu brought attention to the fact that certain states were exhibiting a disregard for the challenges that are associated with climate change. It was also claimed by him that a significant number of stakeholders did not understand climate change and the decrease of emissions. He emphasised the significance of properly disseminating information to populations in the surrounding area, so that they can acquire a solid understanding of how we can take action on a local level to assist in the development of our communities.
Idowu reiterated that the session’s primary goal was to make the reduction of emissions more understandable. The aim was to raise awareness among the stakeholders of local governments about the challenges of climate change and the importance of reducing emissions.
According to him, this particular endeavour is a part of a larger programme that includes workshops of a similar sort in the states of Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Bauchi, Benin, Lagos, and Abuja. He indicated that this particular endeavour is a component of the larger scheme. Additionally, he intends to collaborate with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) to bridge the knowledge gap about climate change and the most effective measures to address inherent environmental concerns.
Idowu mentioned that the work that they had done in Igbo-Etiti the year before had resulted in the creation of a plan of action to investigate the possibility of working together to provide solutions to the problems that are caused by climate change in the state of Enugu. This plan was developed in an effort to pursue integrated measures that would promote solutions at the grassroots level.
The participants, who included the chiefs of health, agricultural, and environment departments in various local government areas, expressed their gratitude for the workshop, pointing out that it provided them with useful insights into preserving the environment in their respective regions.
“Involving local governments in the process of incorporating net-zero strategies into local climate policies and programmes improves the efficiency, relevance, and inclusiveness of climate action, which ultimately results in a future that is more sustainable and resilient for communities,” they chorused.
In conclusion, the workshop in Enugu LG served as a vital platform for educating LGAs on effective emission reduction strategies.
By Olumide Idowu, Executive Director, ICCDI Africa
In the third cohort of the Young Lawyers for Climate Justice programme, which was coordinated by the International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI Africa), 15 young lawyers were given the tools they needed to make substantial headway in the fight against climate change through the use of legal techniques.
Nigerian young climate justice lawyers
The foundation of the programme is comprised of a group of young lawyers from universities and professionals, who are committed to preserving the environment and advancing sustainable development.
The Young Lawyers for Climate Justice initiative is dedicated to educating young legal professionals with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to advocate for climate justice in their particular environments, according to Olumide Idowu, the Executive Director of ICCDI Africa.
Individuals are provided with legal skills through the programme, which enables them to make major contributions to important topics such as the mitigation of climate change, adaptation to climate change, and environmental governance, so having a tangible impact on our world.
Furthermore, this effort fosters a community of environmentally conscious individuals who are able to share ideas, stories, and tactics that are exemplary. It does this by encouraging collaboration and interconnection among persons who are interested in pursuing future careers in the legal field. In order to foster collaboration and the sharing of knowledge among Nigerians who are interested in pursuing careers in the legal field, the project offers an environment that is welcoming to all. As a stimulus for collective action and the study of novel methods to address the severe climate challenges that our world is currently facing, the platform serves as a catalyst.
At the same time, a few of the participants shared their perspectives on the impact that the training has had on them.
“YL4 Climate Justice is a reality check on the scourge of activities that are environmentally destructive and a reminder to pursue climate justice with more seriousness than ever before if the entire human race is to be safe,” said Oluwasegun Ikuforiji, a participant.
“YL4 Climate Justice is, without a doubt, a wake-up call regarding the necessity of climate justice awareness in our current world, and the programme that was offered to the third cohort was both enlightening and engaging,” stated Faith Ogunlola, who is also a participant.
“YL4 Climate Justice is an insightful programme that explains the reasons to create a more equitable environment in which everyone benefits from a healthier planet while polluters take responsibility for their actions,” submitted Esther Ajayi, another participant.
“I participated in Youth Leadership for Climate Justice, which was a life-changing educational opportunity that provided me with an in-depth understanding of climate justice. Their tireless campaigning, which amplifies voices from underrepresented groups and drives change, is something I respect. Their commitment to providing future leaders with the tools they need is admirable,” stressed Jenifatu Oshiozuwe Yakubu.
Participants are given with the resources, knowledge, and support they need to effectively advocate for the preservation of the planet and work towards a sustainable future in Nigeria. This is accomplished by providing them with the essential materials.
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board convening for its 39th meeting (GCF B.39) from July 15 to 18, 2024, in Songdo, Incheon, Republic of Korea, is considering 17 new climate project proposals, totalling approximately $1.0 billion in GCF funding, for approval.
The GCF 38th Board meeting in Kigali, Rwanda
The funding proposals cover diverse initiatives that will address the adaptation and mitigation needs of developing countries from the Small Island Developing States in the Caribbean to Asia to the Horn of Africa. These projects span multiple sectors, including coastal resilience, sustainable agricultural systems, ecosystem restoration, and climate technologies.
During the four-day meeting, the Board will also look at accrediting six organisations, four of them Direct Access Entities, to become GCF project implementing partners.
Among the other agenda items, there will be an update on the progress of GCF’s regional presence, partnerships and access strategy, financing of results-based payments for REDD+, and complementarity and coherence action plan. Reports will be presented, including activities of the Secretariat and independent units and the 13th report to the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
GCF B.39 is being attended by about 400 participants, which include observers from civil society and private sector organisations, National Designated Authorities (NDAs), Accredited Entities and other partners who assist in delivering climate finance to developing countries.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become the 25th member state of the Elephant Protection Initiative (EPI), a pan-African alliance of countries dedicated to the conservation of elephants and the harmonious co-existence of elephants and people.
Yves Milan Ngangay, Director General of the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation, ICCN
“The DRC joining the EPI marks a positive progression in the close, fruitful and long-standing collaboration between the country and EPI Foundation. It sends a strong signal of DRC’s intention to be a part of a collective effort to advance elephant conservation and harmonious coexistence across Africa,” the group submitted.
The DG of the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN), Yves Milan Ngangay, is recognised for his commitment to the preservation of biodiversity, including the fight against illegal wildlife trade, said the EPI, adding that DRC’s membership of the organisation demonstrates the country’s political will to conserve its robust elephant population.
The Chair of the EPI Leadership Council, Sharon Ikeazor, said: “As Chair of the EPI Leadership Council I am delighted to warmly welcome the DRC as the 25th member of the EPI. We look forward to working closely with the Government, as we have already been doing through the EPI Foundation, in supporting local, national and cross-border efforts to achieve harmonious coexistence between local communities and elephants across their range.”
The EPI Foundation disclosed that it has been working with the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN), the national agency in charge of the management of ivory and other wildlife products, to improve its system of wildlife product management.
This work, added EPI, includes the development, validation and approval of standard operating procedures, reinforcement of storage facilities and the development of their stockpile management systems.
The EPI CEO, John E. Scanlon AO, said: ‘We warmly welcome DRC as the 25th member of the EPI. DRC becoming a member of the EPI will facilitate efforts to achieve harmonious coexistence across the elephant’s range, and to achieve maximum impact from its projects and initiatives for the benefit of local communities, countries, elephant herds, and entire ecosystems. The EPI Foundation looks forward to supporting the DRC government in achieving its elephant conservation objectives.”
On May 22, 2023, the EPI Foundation hosted a special film from the Congo Basin in Central Africa. The film, presented by Vianet Djenguet, places a spotlight on Africa’s critically endangered Forest Elephants and examines their plight and prospects for the future. Government speakers from Congo-Brazzaville, the DRC, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon, discussed these themes with specific examples from their own countries. They were joined by the Lord Zac Goldsmith from the United Kingdom as well as Cristián Samper of the Bezos Earth Fund.
The EPI Foundation said it would continue to work closely with the Democratic Republic of Congo by:
Helping to secure stockpiles of ivory and other wildlife products, by equipping wildlife officials with the relevant training.
Amplifying the voices of their conservation journalists, and other related support.
The EPI Foundation commended the DRC for achieving the milestone, adding that it looks forward to working closely with the Government to implement projects and other initiatives that serve to promote elephant conservation.
The Ecology and Natural Resources Ministry of Azerbaijan together with the Agency for State Support to Non-governmental Organisations has announced the Competition “International Initiatives related to COP29” for NGOs.
Ed Miliband, British Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary
The submission of documents for the competition will start from Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
The deadline for applications is August 16, 2024. After that, documents collected from NGOs will be examined and projects will be analysed, in order to identify the winners.
The projects presented should be relevant to the topic of global climate change. While
Upper limit of grant amount on Medium Grant Competition (MGC) over an implementation period up to six months is $17,647, the upper limit of grant amount for Large Grant Competition is $29,412.
Meanwhile, Ed Miliband is to take personal control of the UK’s negotiations at vital international climate talks, in stark contrast to his Tory predecessors.
The Guardian of London reports that the energy security and net zero secretary will attend COP29, this year’s UN climate summit, in Azerbaijan this November to head the UK’s delegation and meet political leaders from around the world.
Senior figures in climate diplomacy welcomed the move and said UK leadership would be vital to what is expected to be a tricky and fraught UN climate summit this year.
Christiana Figueres, the former UN climate chief who presided over the Paris Agreement, now founding partner of the Global Optimism thinktank, said: “Ed Miliband has proven experience at Cops and all matters related to those multilateral negotiations. Throughout 14 years he has kept his vigilant eye on the ups and downs, and will not need to start from scratch at all.”
Figueres added: “The fact that the multilateral negotiations will be led by the secretary of energy himself instead of delegating to a junior minister denotes recognition of the importance of the process as we near the halfway point in this decisive decade. We could not be more pleased with the news.”
