The Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF) has reaffirmed its partnership with the Sustainable Island Resource Framework (SIRF) Fund and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda in a bid to secure long-term financing for conservation and climate resilience.

The CBF delegation met this week with Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs Sir Molwyn Joseph during its two-day mission to Antigua and Barbuda. Discussions centred on the transition of the SIRF Fund into the country’s official National Conservation Trust Fund (NCTF), a milestone seen as vital to financing biodiversity protection and climate adaptation well into the future.

A key proposal put forward was the establishment of an NGO Window, which would allow civil society groups and local stakeholders direct access to funds dedicated to conservation and resilience projects. Officials say the initiative would broaden community participation while complementing strong government support already in place.

Also attending the meeting were Junior Minister Senator Michael Joseph, Department of Environment Director Diann Black-Layne, Ambassador Ruleta Camacho, and technical officers, who all underscored the importance of coordinated efforts to meet environmental goals.

The talks also reviewed Cabinet submissions currently under consideration and outlined next steps to strengthen collaboration between the Ministry, the CBF, and the SIRF Fund.