The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are facing serious climate threats — rising temperatures, worsening droughts, extreme weather, and water shortages. These changes are harming the environment and putting people’s health at risk, especially vulnerable groups like women, children, the elderly, and refugees. The worst part is, is that its not looking to get any better as the region will be expecting to have an increase in severe wather events over the coming years from this unpredicatble climate patterns.
When water runs low, food supplies shrink. Heatwaves cause more illnesses. Floods spread disease, and with already limited health systems, the region struggles to cope.
Global Climate Fund (GCF) is expanding its work in MENA. It includes funding projects that connect climate action with health and clean water systems, renewable energy, early warning tools for extreme weather, and nature-based solutions like restoring wetlands to reduce flooding.
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) held its first-ever regional dialogue for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in Rabat, Morocco, from 24 to 28 June 2024. The event gathered more than 220 representatives from 36 countries to explore ways to boost climate financing, encourage private sector investment, and strengthen the region’s capacity to address climate challenges.
“This inaugural GCF Regional Dialogue for the MENA region provides an excellent platform for enhancing our cooperation and exchanging insights on climate action,” said Dr. Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development of Morocco. “This dialogue presents a crucial opportunity to translate our commitments into concrete actions, strengthening the resilience of our communities in response to climate challenges.”
GCF stresses the need for cooperation — from governments and NGOs to schools, farmers, and families. With stronger health systems, smarter environmental planning, and community action, MENA can protect lives, safeguard resources, and build resilience against climate change.
Pathfinder International leads the SAHA project, funded by the Green Climate Fund’s PSAA mechanism, to boost climate resilience in healthcare across Oman, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq. The initiative strengthens 200 health facilities in 14 districts / regions by improving emergency response systems, training healthcare workers, raising awareness of climate-related health risks, and promoting low-cost community solutions like safe water and hygiene.