Jamaican Mansfield Blackwood Takes Charge as New Climate Leader in the Caribbean

Jamaican Mansfield Blackwood Takes Charge as New Climate Leader in the Caribbean

The Caribbean region is entering a new chapter in its fight against climate change with the recent appointment of Mansfield Blackwood as the assistant executive director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC). Set to take effect on September 15, this appointment signals a commitment to reinforce regional climate resilience amidst the growing threats faced by these vibrant islands. Dr. Colin Young, CCCCC’s Executive Director, expressed his enthusiasm about Blackwood’s extensive experience in climate programming and regional development, which he believes will be a valuable asset in the journey ahead.

Blackwood’s impressive 30-year career spans various positions, notably as a partner country systems advisor for USAID, where he enhanced development capabilities across the Caribbean. He holds both a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from the University of the West Indies. His deep understanding of the Caribbean development landscape and prowess in building partnerships make him well-suited for this role.

Strengthening Regional Initiatives

The CCCCC, established in 2002 and headquartered in Belize, has been pivotal in coordinating the Caribbean’s response to climate change. It serves as a hub for climate-related policy advice, providing guidance to CARICOM Member States as well as the UK’s Caribbean Overseas Territories. The Centre’s mission includes developing effective solutions to counter environmental impacts and global warming, essential work given the region’s vulnerability.

Blackwood’s leadership comes at a crucial time as the Centre looks to bolster climate resilience initiatives. The CCCCC recently launched the „Enhancing Eco-systems and Coastal Protection for Climate Change Resilience in the Caribbean“ (ECP-Caribbean) project. This ambitious project aims to improve the management and conservation of coral reefs and coastal ecosystems, which are vital to the health and prosperity of coastal communities. The project focuses on seven CARICOM countries: Belize, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname.

Notably, this initiative has garnered financial backing, with Canada pledging CAD$12 million (about US$8.88 million) and an additional CAD$0.81 million from the CCCCC. It is projected to directly benefit at least 250,000 individuals and indirectly assist around 3.3 million through marine ecosystem protection activities.

Looking Ahead

Blackwood is set to provide strategic oversight and technical guidance to the CCCCC’s Programme Development and Management Division and the Technical Services Division. His responsibilities will encompass aligning projects with regional priorities, engaging stakeholders, strengthening the project pipeline, and advancing climate finance proposals. With his expertise, the CCCCC aims to facilitate actionable solutions that resonate with the local context and empower communities.

The challenges of climate change are no small matter for the Caribbean. However, with dedicated leadership and strategic partnerships, there’s every reason to believe that the region can not only adapt but thrive. As Mansfield Blackwood steps into his new role, the eyes of many will be upon him, eager to see how his experience will help shape a resilient future for Caribbean nations. In the face of adversity, there’s something to be said for having a good hand playing toward sustainability.