US $40M Climate Financing Expected for Indigenous Communities

Through the Green Climate Fund, nearly US$40 million will go to Indigenous communities in the south to fight the growing impacts of climate change. The Julian Cho Society is leading the effort and has already started consulting villages in the Toledo District.

The project, called Maya LED Pathways for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Economies, is designed to help farmers adapt to changing weather and strengthen local agriculture and businesses.

Executive Director Pablo Mes said the focus is on the communities themselves. “This is because 25% of the world’s landmass is actually managed by indigenous peoples. And a large tract of this landmass remains forested. And this is critical to climate mitigation,” he explained.

Mes added that if the world is serious about tackling climate change, investment must go directly to indigenous peoples, whose traditions and knowledge are key to finding solutions that actually work.

After speaking with more than 60 high school teachers, Mes noted one concern stood out. While climate funding is increasing, the rules for accessing it often don’t match the needs of those who require direct support. This project, he said, is meant to respond to the realities of Maya families by offering practical solutions that fit their circumstances.

Mes also stressed that the money is not yet available. The government has endorsed the project, but organisers are waiting on final approval from the Green Climate Fund before moving into full proposal development.

If things go as planned, the project could start in 2027, bringing direct help to Maya communities in southern Belize.