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The African Development Bank Group has approved more than 31 million U.S. dollars in funding under its African Climate Action Window (CAW) to enhance climate resilience in Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Djibouti, and Madagascar.

The Climate Action Window, part of the Bank Group’s African Development Fund, aims to mobilize 4 billion U.S. dollars by 2025 to provide rapid and coordinated access to climate finance. It focuses on co-financing opportunities and prioritizes support for the most vulnerable countries, fragile states, and conflict-affected regions.

The latest funding, will support 41 pioneering climate adaptation projects under CAW’s first call for project proposals. These projects aim to address climate change, enhance livelihoods, particularly for women and youth—and strengthen climate information systems. Additionally, the projects will receive 28.13 million U.S. dollars in climate co-financing from sources including the Green Climate Fund.

Enhancing water security and disaster preparedness in Sierra Leone

The Freetown WASH and Aquatic Environment Revamping Project will receive 5 million U.S. dollars to improve access to sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. The project will also introduce modern hydro-meteorological observation networks and early warning systems, benefiting approximately 700,000 people. A key component is the development of an interactive flood map for the Freetown Peninsula, a crucial tool for disaster risk reduction.

Climate-resilient agriculture in food security in South Sudan

The Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems Transformation Programme has been allocated 9.4 million U.S. dollars to expand climate-adaptive technologies, improve agricultural productivity, and strengthen food and nutritional security. The program includes the rehabilitation of 1,200 hectares of land and the development of rural infrastructure to support climate-smart farming. It will also provide training to 8,000 individuals on sustainable farming techniques. The initiative is expected to reduce 720,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions while creating 180,000 direct jobs, with a strong focus on women and youth. Additionally, 90,000 farmers will be equipped with knowledge on climate-resilient agricultural techniques.

Youth-led climate entrepreneurship in Djibouti

The Youth Entrepreneurship for Climate Change Adaptation Project will receive 7.5 million U.S. dollars to strengthen climate resilience in horticulture and pastoral farming. The initiative aims to increase the self-sufficiency rate of key market garden crops from 10 percent to 30 percent while creating 3,500 permanent jobs, with a significant share for youth and women. Additionally, it will facilitate the establishment of 200 new small and medium enterprises (SMEs) focused on climate adaptation.

Biodiversity conservation and climate resilience in Madagascar

The Climate Resilience through Park Biodiversity Preservation Project has been granted 9.4 million U.S. dollars to protect and restore Lokobe, Nosy Hara, and Andringitra National Parks. The project will fully restore 100 percent of these protected areas and is expected to sequester 10 million tonnes of CO2. It will also create 1,500 green jobs, including 500 specifically for women. In addition to environmental conservation, the initiative will support agricultural production in surrounding communities by increasing yields by 24,000 tonnes of rice and 14,000 tonnes of cereals, legumes, and other crops. Furthermore, 24,000 farmers will receive training in irrigation techniques, and 12 women-led farmers’ groups will be provided with agricultural kits to enhance productivity.

Dr. Kevin Kariuki, African Development Bank Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate Change, and Green Growth, emphasized the transformative nature of these investments. He stated that the Climate Action Window is catalyzing transformative solutions in Africa’s most climate-vulnerable regions. From strengthening water security in Sierra Leone to advancing youth-led agribusiness in Djibouti and restoring biodiversity in Madagascar, these initiatives go beyond adaptation—they drive prosperity. Through these investments, the Bank is equipping communities to withstand climate shocks, create jobs, and accelerate inclusive economic growth.

Prof. Anthony Nyong, the Bank’s Director for Climate Change and Green Growth, highlighted the importance of adaptation finance. He noted that these initiatives are not just about responding to climate change; they empower communities to take control of their own futures. He further emphasized that adaptation finance can and must be directed to vulnerable communities that need it most. The Climate Action Window, he said, is more than just a funding mechanism—it is a lifeline for communities facing the harsh realities of climate change every day.

Original article published by AfDB