IFAD at COP: Raising the voices of rural people

As the world begins to gather for COP28, we are also readying ourselves to attend. Our goal? To put rural people at the centre of the global climate negotiations.

During the two-week event, IFAD will advocate climate-smart agriculture, skill development and food security. We will contribute to a web of collaborations, participate in high-profile sessions, and join a collective commitment dedicated to shaping a sustainable future.

This year, IFAD collaborates with CGIAR, FAO, and the Rockefeller Foundation to host the #AgriFoodPavilion, where we will discuss the role of agrifood systems in climate solutions, nourishing the world and providing livelihoods.

Transforming climate action 

We recognise the unique potential of agriculture in tackling climate change. This is why we are also highlighting the need for more climate finance for rural people. We must look beyond emission reduction towards biodiversity conservation, food security and poverty alleviation.  

We see climate change as a shared responsibility that demands a comprehensive strategy, with rural communities at the forefront of it. This is why IFAD adopts a people-centred approach, prioritizing long-term resilience in fragile contexts and supporting rural livelihoods and institutions for community-led transformative change.

This year at COP, IFAD is launching the Africa Rural Climate Adaptation Financing Mechanism (ARCAFIM) and addressing climate vulnerability in Small Island Developing States. We collaborate with civil society to explore innovative strategies for a sustainable food future and touch on the impact of climate change on local cuisines with Senegalese Chef Pierre Thiam. The series concludes with discussions on scaling up nature-based solutions, ensuring sustainable food systems and exploring digital innovations for climate-resilient agriculture.

IFAD will also co-lead three UNFCCC side events, addressing agrifood systems, aligning development, humanitarian and climate finance and discussing climate resilience in Latin America and the Caribbean.

A call to action for sustainable investments

IFAD's presence at COP28 will also serve to underscore the importance of the private sector in driving sustainable agricultural practices, promoting investments, diversifying rural livelihoods, expanding market access, and ensuring the prosperity of rural communities.

It is imperative we recognize the impact of sustainable rural investments, emphasize the need for resilient gains and progress and break the cycle of crises through sustainable, inclusive and impactful investments.

Follow IFAD's journey at COP28 as we showcase efforts towards sustainable agriculture, climate resilience and food security. Together, let's shape a future where rural communities thrive amidst the challenges of climate change.

Publication date: 29 November 2023