Antigua and Barbuda made a significant impact at the 8th International Adaptation Futures Conference (AF2025), held in Christchurch, New Zealand. The event, a global gathering of climate leaders, scientists, policymakers, and innovators, focused on advancing adaptation research and practical solutions to enhance climate resilience worldwide. Representing the Caribbean nation, Mr. Garth Simon, Monitoring and Evaluation Associate at the Department of Environment (DoE), participated as a featured panelist in a side event titled ‘Lessons Learned and Findings from Adaptation Interventions in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs): Experiences from the Adaptation Fund Portfolio.’ The session, organized by the Adaptation Fund Secretariat, brought together Implementing Entities from the Pacific, Caribbean, and African regions to share insights from adaptation projects in vulnerable island contexts. Mr. Simon highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s experiences with the Adaptation Fund–financed ‘Integrated Approach to Physical Adaptation and Community Resilience in the Northwest McKinnon’s Watershed’ project. He emphasized the importance of community-based adaptation, blended finance, and cross-sector collaboration in achieving long-term resilience outcomes. The discussions also explored innovative strategies for building resilience, enhancing community engagement, and strengthening institutional capacities to address climate risks. The conference underscored the critical role of global cooperation in tackling the escalating challenges posed by climate change.
Garth Simon represents Antigua and Barbuda at Adaptation Futures 2025 Conference in New Zealand
