At the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Conference Centre, a significant gathering took place. Government officials, NGOs, UN representatives, private sector leaders, and regional governors came together to discuss a transformative climate project. Their goal was to review a key project document before moving forward.
Dr. Dawda Badjie, the executive director of the National Environment Agency (NEA) and Gambia’s focal point for the Global Environment Facility (GEF), highlighted the pressing need to tackle climate challenges in urban areas. He introduced the CLIMB Project, which has a budget of $12.17 million, funded by the GEF through the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). This project is groundbreaking, being the first of its kind in Africa.
“This project is a challenge for us all,” Dr. Badjie said. “We can set a standard or let this opportunity slip by.” He emphasized that Gambia could lead by example, proving that urban resilience projects can thrive on the continent.
Dr. Badjie shared that after extensive consultations, the project focuses on reshaping Greater Banjul. It aims to incorporate ecosystem-based adaptation, better urban planning, and sustainable infrastructure. He warned that issues like excessive concretization and poor land management are worsening conditions, leading to flooding and heat stress. Collective action is vital.
Baboucarr Zaidi Jallow, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, reinforced this urgency. He noted that rising sea levels and flooding threaten both livelihoods and infrastructure in Gambia. Alarmingly, climate impacts consume about 25% of the annual road maintenance budget.
“The climate emergency is clear and pressing,” Jallow stated. He explained that the CLIMB Project will help integrate climate resilience into urban laws, protect wetlands and mangroves, and bolster early warning systems. It aims to serve as a blueprint for urban survival.
Gambia is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 49.7% by 2030 and restoring vast areas of mangroves. Funded by the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) of the GEF, this project aligns with Gambia’s National Climate Change Policy, prioritizing community input in adaptation strategies.
Stakeholders, including those from the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and local government, praised this initiative. They view it as timely for protecting vulnerable communities and enhancing resilience against climate impacts.
As the project validation progresses, it is poised to inspire other African nations. This positions Gambia as a leader in innovative climate resilience efforts, showcasing that with collaboration and commitment, positive change is possible.
