Inception workshop launched the new phase of Flexible Voluntary Contribution subprogramme on livestock climate action

The inception workshop marked the launch of the second phase of the Flexible Voluntary Contribution (FVC) subprogramme, titled “Scaling-up livestock climate actions to enhance nationally determined contributions.” This project aims to support six countries - Bangladesh, Bhutan, Laos, Senegal, Zambia, and Zimbabwe - in raising their national climate ambitions by integrating livestock-specific mitigation and adaptation strategies into their nationally determined contributions (NDCs).

The initiative seeks to improve climate resilience, food security, and livelihoods in alignment with the Paris Agreement through enhanced mitigation and adaptation programmes within the livestock sector. This second phase follows the initial phase, which was implemented in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

About the global inception workshop

Held in Nairobi, Kenya on 1 and 2 July, the inception workshop brought together FAO and government project focal points to initiate project implementation. The workshop enhanced country ownership of the project and paved the way for increased national commitment to climate action within the livestock sector. Participants built capacity in climate-smart livestock practices, policy analysis, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from livestock. They discussed the subprogramme's objectives and activities and presented national implementation work plans. Success stories from phase I countries, such as Bangladesh, Senegal, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, were shared along with important lessons learned to benefit new focal countries Laos and Bhutan.

Strengthening institutional collaboration and coordination

The subprogramme's multi-stakeholder approach is vital for strengthening institutional collaboration and coordination, enhancing national livestock climate action in target countries. It facilitates alignment of sectoral priorities and creation of synergies for climate action among ministries and agencies responsible for climate change and livestock.

Enhancing national capacities and access to climate finance

The subprogramme supports countries in bolstering national capacities for compiling livestock GHG inventories using the Tier 2 methodology and identifying climate-smart livestock production strategies. Additionally, it aids in improving access to climate finance within the livestock sector. To attract funding, it is crucial for livestock to be prioritized in national climate strategies and integrated into NDCs. Generating evidence on emissions, mitigation options, and the socio-economic benefits of climate-smart livestock practices is also necessary to build a compelling investment case.

Developing roadmaps and action plans

In certain countries, the subprogramme supports the development of comprehensive roadmaps and action plans aimed at addressing livestock climate action and reducing methane emissions. This strategic planning is essential for achieving the project's long-term objectives and ensuring sustainable climate action in the livestock sector.