Harnessing Nature to Combat Climate Change: Africa’s Green Solutions for a Resilient Future
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) recently hosted a powerful online webinar under the theme “INCLUSIVE NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR A RESILIENT FUTURE,” bringing together experts, policymakers, and environmental advocates. The event centered on the role of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) in addressing climate change challenges in Zambia and Africa. As climate change intensifies, sustainable, nature-driven approaches are crucial for both mitigating its effects and adapting to its impacts.
What Are Nature-Based Solutions? Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) involve actions that protect, restore, and sustainably manage natural ecosystems. These solutions help address environmental, social, and economic challenges while enhancing human well-being and resilience. In regions vulnerable to climate degradation, NbS offer a framework for fostering sustainable development and climate resilience.
NbS in the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) One standout example of NbS success is the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA), a vast conservation area that spans five countries: Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. WWF championed the initiative, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation in combating climate change.
Dr. Bowen Banda, Senior Manager of WWF’s Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas Initiative, highlighted that NbS not only mitigate climate change but also foster peace and stability, helping nations collaborate on environmental solutions.
Zambia’s Commitment to Sustainable Growth Zambia, a key player in this movement, has introduced the National Green Growth Strategy (2024-2030) under the leadership of Hon. Collins Nzovu, Minister of Green Economy and Environment. This strategy aligns with NbS by promoting climate resilience and protecting ecosystems.
Zambia’s wetlands, including the Lukanga Swamps and Bangweulu Wetlands, are suffering due to climate change. Revitalizing these wetlands through NbS can reduce flood risks and protect communities. Minister Nzovu affirmed, “The goal is to promote sustainable practices that foster climate resilience while protecting Zambia’s natural resources.”
Challenges to Implementing NbS Despite the potential of NbS, challenges persist. Tendai Chinho, WWF Zimbabwe’s Nature-Based Solutions Project Manager, pointed to land ownership issues and tenure security conflicts as significant barriers. These disputes between traditional leaders, the government, and conservation groups can delay NbS projects. Public awareness and policy support also need strengthening to ensure wider adoption of NbS solutions.
The Path Forward: A Collaborative Approach For NbS to succeed, collaboration is essential. Governments, businesses, and civil society must unite to fund, support, and promote NbS projects. By including local communities in the process, these solutions are more likely to succeed and provide broader social, environmental, and economic benefits. Africa must harness the full potential of NbS to build resilience and adapt to the changing climate.
As climate change continues to threaten ecosystems and communities, the call to action is clear: Africa must embrace Nature-Based Solutions as a cornerstone of its climate response strategy. The future of a sustainable, resilient Africa depends on it.
