The session offered a series of firesides chat between a moderator, facility manager and beneficiaries. Our aim was to showcase the achievements of the two facilities and share insights on the use of EU blending instruments to unlock, accelerate and leverage clean energy finance and sustainable agriculture and agri-food systems finance. The event was the opportunity to present case studies, their impact on local beneficiaries and to hear from entrepreneurs on the ground.
Synopsis
The session shed light on the importance of providing financial solutions that can accelerate the development of clean energy and sustainable agriculture. The European Commission’s Global Gateway initiative was brought to the audience’s attention, with emphasis put on its value in striving to narrow the global investment gap.
When discussing investment in energy, the need to focus on off-grid solutions was stressed, especially as this approach can help to achieve SDG 7 in sub-Saharan Africa.
With regard to investments in agriculture, the speakers noted that many farmers lack access to training, technology and finance. Moreover, the climate crisis, including increased periods of drought, is making them even more vulnerable. The Sistema.bio’s biodigester solution, which transforms organic waste into organic fertilisers, was also presented. It is estimated that it can allow for small farmers to reduce their respective Co2 emissions by 6 to 15 tonnes per year.
