The Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) has named Ibrahima Cheikh Diong as its inaugural Executive Director, marking a significant milestone in addressing the financial needs of developing countries most impacted by climate change. Diong’s four-year term will commence on November 1, 2024.
“I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time when the climate crisis is proving to be an existential threat to lives and livelihoods, particularly of the most vulnerable communities in developing countries,” Diong said in a statement. “The Fund for responding to Loss and Damage will make a significant difference to those disproportionately affected, and I take this responsibility with humility and a full commitment to serve.”
Diong, who holds both Senegalese and American nationality, brings over three decades of experience in climate change, finance, and development. His role will involve leading the Fund’s Secretariat and guiding the Board in its mission to provide financial support to countries hardest hit by climate impacts.
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Richard Sherman, FRLD Co-Chair, highlighted the importance of Diong’s selection: “The selection of Ibrahima, a developing country leader, to drive the Fund’s bottom-up, country-driven approach reflects the seriousness of the multilateral resolve to address the urgent impacts of loss and damage in countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.”
Jean-Christophe Donnellier, FRLD Co-Chair, added, “With this appointment, the Fund is taking a critical step towards helping countries most affected by climate change. I warmly congratulate Ibrahima and look forward to working closely with him.”
The FRLD Board also approved key documents enabling the World Bank to act as interim trustee and host for the Fund’s Secretariat.