The government and citizens of Tuvalu recently celebrated a notable achievement in their climate resilience initiatives with the completion of 8 hectares of reclaimed land, marking the second phase of the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project (TCAP). This ambitious project, backed by a US$17.5 million investment from Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, was implemented by the UN Development Programme (UNDP). The newly developed elevated land, located on Fogafale—the largest and most populous islet in Funafuti—is designed to remain above projected sea levels long into the future, beyond the year 2100.
During the completion ceremony, Prime Minister Feleti Teo reiterated his government’s commitment to protecting the nation’s communities and way of life from the rising threat of sea levels. He emphasized that this project exemplifies effective leadership and collaboration. “The new land will provide safe ground for homes, schools, and essential infrastructure, guided by a community-designed land use plan that places people and ecosystems at the center of development,” he stated.
Munkhtuya Altangerel, the UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative, commended Tuvalu’s government and its people for their resilience. She remarked, “This milestone is a testament to Tuvalu’s determination to chart its path toward climate resilience and sustainable development.” Altangerel added that the project not only highlights protection from climate threats but also embodies hope for the nation.
Australian High Commissioner to Tuvalu, David Charlton, reaffirmed Australia’s ongoing commitment to the region, sharing that Australia has invested over $38 million in various projects in Tuvalu. He stressed the importance of these efforts for both current and future generations. Belinda Malaefou from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of ongoing partnerships to maximize positive impacts for the people of Tuvalu.
Dirk Wagener, the UN Resident Coordinator for the Pacific, noted that the successful mobilization of resources for TCAP represents a significant milestone, yet he emphasized the necessity for continued collaboration and investment to ensure the sustainability of Tuvalu’s adaptation efforts.
The TCAP not only confronts immediate climate threats but also fortifies national frameworks for land management and policy development, fostering a sustainable long-term adaptation strategy. Plans are also in progress for TCAP 1B, which aims to enhance coastal protection along the northern shoreline of Fogafale, incorporating lessons from previous phases to optimize effectiveness.
The completion of this land reclamation project is a hopeful advancement for Tuvalu, exemplifying proactive measures that can inspire other vulnerable nations similarly affected by climate change. With strong collaboration and a shared vision amongst international partners, Tuvalu is making significant strides in fortifying its resilience against the ongoing challenges posed by climate change.