In memoriam: Daniel Machado da Fonseca

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is deeply saddened at the passing of Daniel Machado da Fonseca on 3 March 2024.  Daniel was a GCF Board member, climate action champion and beloved colleague.

Daniel recently joined the GCF Board as the Head of the Climate Action Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil.  He was appointed as Board Adviser in 2023 and became a Board member on 1 January 2024.  With climate close to his heart, he helped organise the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in 2012, while working at the Ministry’s General-Coordination for Sustainable Development. Daniel also worked in the Renewable Energy Division, the Nuclear Energy Coordination, the Energy, Minerals and Infrastructure Department, and the Trade and Investments Department. 

Dedicating his life to public service, he was a career diplomat for over seventeen years, reaching the rank of Counsellor in 2023, having served at the Embassies of Brazil in Nairobi, Rome, and New Delhi.

Recognised as a consummate professional, fearless advocate for developing countries and friend, Daniel was a source of commitment, dedication, inspiration and kindness.  GCF shares our deepest sympathies with Daniel’s loved ones, friends, and colleagues.  We will miss him greatly.