Building inclusive resilience: DFCD and GESI
SNV uses the DFCD Origination Facility to integrate Gender Equality and Social Inclusion into climate adaptation work, ensuring that marginalised groups benefit from climate resilient investments.
Abstract
This brief explains SNV’s approach to integrating Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) within its work under the Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD) Origination Facility. SNV aims to ensure that women, indigenous groups, people who have been marginalised, and low‑income communities benefit equitably from climate adaptation investments. It aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and draws on evidence that these groups disproportionately suffer from climate impacts due to social exclusion, limited access to resources, and systemic inequality.
The document outlines specific tools and processes used throughout the DFCD project cycle, including:
GESI screening checklists during early‑stage screening and due diligence
Stakeholder mapping to identify people who have been marginalised and their needs
Integration of GESI milestones in technical assistance work plans
Parallel gender and social assessments alongside environmental safeguards
Development of customised GESI action plans, with clear KPIs and reporting structures
Measuring impact
The DFCD GESI approach helps companies deliver climate results that are more inclusive and more sustainable. By using structured assessments and action plans, projects can reduce barriers faced by marginalised groups and increase their participation in climate‑resilient value chains. Early results show improvements in women’s access to services, training and leadership roles, as well as better opportunities for youth and low‑income groups.
Impact measurement is also highlighted, with business cases required to track indicators such as increased access to productive resources and greater decision‑making power for marginalised individuals.
Illustrative case studies demonstrate real‑world application:
SokoFresh (Kenya): improved women’s access to cold storage hubs and introduced a gender‑pay transparency policy.
KOFI (Cambodia): implemented a barista training scheme for youth and boosted diversity in supplier networks.
Camimex (Vietnam): appointed women to leadership roles and introduced a small‑credit scheme for women farmers.
ETC (South Sudan): strengthened HR and stakeholder practices to foster gender‑responsive forestry operations.
These examples show how GESI integration improves business practices, enhances inclusivity, and increases investment appeal.
Looking ahead to 2024-2027, SNV and WWF plan to refine GESI tools, train teams, and promote systemic empowerment by engaging men and boys and addressing the root causes of gender inequality. This builds resilience and equity into climate‑smart investment strategies.