The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has approved eight new FAO-led projects totaling USD 58.8 million to support sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture across seven countries: Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Mexico, Senegal, Tanzania, and Ukraine. These initiatives are designed to strengthen food systems while addressing climate change, land degradation, and biodiversity loss, with direct benefits expected for more than one million people.
The projects focus on restoring degraded ecosystems, improving sustainable agricultural land management, and promoting biodiversity-positive livestock systems, while also contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. By integrating climate adaptation and mitigation measures into agricultural practices, the initiatives aim to enhance rural livelihoods, increase resilience to climate shocks, and support long-term environmental sustainability in both rural and vulnerable regions.
In addition to GEF funding, the projects will mobilize approximately USD 429 million in co-financing, significantly amplifying their impact. This approval marks a major milestone for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)–GEF partnership, bringing its total grant portfolio to over USD 2 billion worldwide. The expanded collaboration reinforces global efforts to build resilient food systems, protect natural resources, and promote sustainable livelihoods in the face of accelerating climate and environmental challenges.
