BY: MOSES MASSAH PROGRAMME MANAGER: UNDP ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT THE UNDP/GEF – Small Grant Programme

Background Launched in 1992 Purpose is to provide support for community-level initiatives that contribute to: Conserving global biodiversity; Mitigating global climate change; Protecting international waters; and Sometimes land degradation

Background cont’d Maximum USD50, can be awarded by NSC to an NGO/CBO on a competitive basis. Only CBOs and local NGOs can benefit. NSC draws up CPS which identify country priorities. Grant is managed by UNDP but programs execution services are provided by UNOPS.

Pre-requisites At least CBD and CC conversations ratified by country. Government commitment to support SGP NGOs take lead in implementation (NSC dominated by NGOs). Presence and adequate capacity of local NGOs and CBOs. Positive working relationships between government and NGOs/CBOs.

Pre-requisites cont’d Government and UNDP CO willing to co-finance and/or help attract other co-funding sources. Government willing to contribute RAF funds to SGP as per established guidelines. Existence of environmental threats/needs. Existence of areas with significant global biodiversity.

PROJECT ELIGIBILITY Project must be in one of the GEF focal areas as follows:  Biodiversity;  Climate Change, and/or  Multi focal area Project must reflect one or more of the GEF operational programme concerns; Global importance; National Priority; Community participation; Sustainability; and Beneficiaries

Current Status of SGP in Liberia Government provided letter of support. Appraisal mission field to Liberia concluded. Mission report approved Liberia to participate in SGP. National program coordinator recruited NSC establishment on-going. NPC now in Ethiopia to participate in the NPC coordination meeting.

Current status of SGP cont’d NPC orientation in Ghana schedule for November 26-Dec. 4, Following full establishment of NSC, CPS development is next. Grant making may likely start in first quarter of 2009.

Constraints Limited starting fund ($150,000.00) No allocation for vehicle for NPC.

Recommendations Government allocate in national budget funds to support SGP; Considering present realities NSC considers only two focal areas for Liberia’s SGP- biodiversity and climate change; Private sector be encouraged by government to support SGP; and Bilateral funding should be encouraged.

THANK YOU!