As part of the Readiness-Libya II project, the Sahara and Sahel Observatory (OSS) organized an awareness-raising, consultation, and dialogue workshop titled “Challenges and Opportunities for the Private Sector in Accessing Climate Finance and Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Libya.” This event took place in Tripoli from May 26th to 27th , 2024, and aimed to raise awareness among key private sector entities, addressing the challenges and opportunities related to private sector engagement in climate finance and sustainable development in Libya.
Over the course of two days, the workshop provided an opportunity to introduce and enhance the understanding of private sector representatives and the National Designated Authority (NDA) members regarding the mechanisms and requirements for accessing climate finance. This workshop was an opportunity to Identify the specific challenges faced by the private sector in Libya in this regard, to explore the opportunities for engagement in achieving sustainable goals; and fostering the impactful collaboration between the governmental bodies and international organizations. The workshop also focused on identifying key priority areas for Libya to capitalize on, towards the submission of bankable proposals. The discussions also included an overview of the current status of legal and regulatory frameworks for the private sector, with a particular focus on climate change investment.
The workshop also focused on the strategic framework for climate change in Libya, offering clarity on the NDA’s role, responsibilities, internal organizational structures, and methods for screening projects to be submitted for approval.
Moreover, participants engaged in creating an initial project portfolio for the Green Climate Fund (GCF), encompassing both adaptation and mitigation strategies, GCF investment criteria, and OSS intervention areas. This workshop also provided an opportunity to start building the capacities of the Libyan SME representatives in the process of preparing the public and private partnership framework – the initial strategic framework for climate change that guides the alignment of projects with national priorities.
By fostering a deeper understanding of climate finance, the workshop successfully laid the groundwork for a more proactive and informed private sector in Libya to take impactful actions.
The workshop was a significant step towards bridging gaps and building synergies. With continued effort and collaboration, Libya’s private sector can play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development and addressing climate challenges through the PPP approach.