Evidence-based policymaking for the promotion of an EbA approach in the development of the green belt in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

The project aims at restoring and rehabilitating three sites located in the Green Belt, which has been severely impacted by Climate Change and a fast urbanisation leading to the degradation of its ecosystem.

The adoption of sustainable resource management is necessary to protect farming activities and to preserve the biodiversity of the Green Belt. In the urban context of Ouagadougou, the Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) approach will be promoted through a three-pillared strategy linking research, awareness-raising activities, and policymaking.

In order to promote best practices for a more effective climate change mitigation strategy, the research component will analyse the Green Belt ecosystem and its potential.

Awareness activities and trainings addressed to primary schools, targeted farmers, and associations active in the area, will play a fundamental role in promoting the understanding and knowledge on the importance of preserving the Green Belt.

In order to mainstream the EbA approach into local and national legislation, the project will intervene at policy level involving the Municipality of Ouagadougou, the Ministry of the Environment, and mayors of other Burkinabe and Sahelian cities. Addressing these three components, the intervention strategy aims to improve socioeconomic status, wellbeing and local communities’ resilience to Climate Change.

Project Status

Three sites of 15 hectares have been covered by studies highlighting the added value of EbA approaches and the level of vulnerability of the population to climatic hazards. These documents will be available on an open-sourced database containing documents, research, and pertinent information related to the Green Belt, enhancing local adaptation initiatives, practices, and studies to guide green-area management in urban contexts.

A practical guide with identification of the most beneficial actions, plant species, technologies and EbA practices has been finalized and promoted with local authorities and the population. 200 farmers (74% women) on the Green Belt have been trained in EbA and other environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

ACRA’s environmental program has been updated with specific units on climate change and delivered to 12 schools. Through the collaboration with inspectors, the schools will include the program into the curriculum during specific hours dedicated to civic education. The Guidelines for the integration of EbA approaches in the local legislation have been developed and 32 officers (8% women) have been trained on the integration of EbA approaches in local legislations.

Key Figures:

• 15 hectares have been covered by a vulnerability assessment;

• 48 agroecology “good practices” identified;

• 200 farmers (74% women) trained on EbA and other environmentally friendly agricultural practices;

• 126 students (out of 640) participated in ACRA’s educational and nutritional program;

• 32 officers (8% women) have been trained on the integration of EbA approaches in local legislations.