Despite the rapid growth in climate policies and actions at the national, regional and international levels, there is limited attention and value given to local actors´ contributions to the design and implementation process. However, spotlighted local actions show that local communities are at the forefront of climate adaptation, and hence provide an important approach and entry point for the achievement of multiple societal goals and transformative climate action.

The ten case studies from our Climate Adaptation in West Africa project detail the diverse knowledge and dynamic strategies, practices and actions employed by local communities in Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal to address the impact of climate change and enhance resilience. The profiles underline the barriers and challenges faced by local communities in the context of growing climate change impacts. Finally, they highlight opportunities and entry points for support and collaborations with national and international actors to enhance effectiveness, sustainability and, when appropriate, to scale-up. The profiled case studies cover diverse geographical and ecological zones, and touch on various sectors with relevance to the implementation of National Determined Contributions (NDCs), national development policies and other and social and economic priorities as follows:

Overall, the case studies demonstrate that locally-led adaptation actions play a vital role in climate and sustainable development actions. However, to tap into this potential, more research is needed to inform and support the collaborative development of policies and implementation strategies and actions at all levels of society.

Coastal Erosion and Flooding in Ghana's Coastal Region

Early Warning Systems and Response to Flooding in Peri - Urban Areas

Strengthening Grassroot Communities to Employ Climatesmart Agriculture In Ghana

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These select case studies highlight locally-led initiatives in the face of growing climate induced risks and vulnerabilities. They spotlight communities in Northern Ghana embracing organic shea processing and tree planting to combat food insecurity, to the residents of Aboabo tackling urbanization challenges with waste management, and the fisherfolk of Keta town in the Volta Region innovating against coastal erosion threats.

Agriculture in the Community of Daga Birame in Senegal

Coastal Erosion in the Island Communities of Dionewar in Senegal

The Health Sector of Widou Thiengoly Village in Senegal

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The three case studies showcase measures being carried out in Senegal to adapt to climate change. From the climate-smart village of Daga Birame, where collaborative efforts focus on resilient crop varieties and climate education, to the island communities of Dionewar innovating with natural barriers against coastal erosion, and the northern regions employing research-driven strategies to combat the health impacts of heat waves— the case studies are a testament to the importance of local knowledge, collaborative efforts, and nature-based solutions in dealing with the growing impacts of climate change.

Biogas Production for Forest Conservation in Nigeria

Fisheries and the Aquaculture Sector of Nigeria

Land Degradation in Rural Areas of South-Eastern Nigeria

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The spotlighted case studies showcase the determination of diverse communities in the face of mounting climate change induced threats to lives and livelihood in Nigeria. From the depleted forests of Owode Town where communities are turning to organic waste to restore biodiversity, to the aquaculture hubs of Abesan and Shagari Estates innovating against climate threats for food security, and the subsistence farmers of Abatete confronting the devastating impacts of gully erosion— these select case studies highlight diverse actions undertaken by local communities to enhance resilience and adaptive capacities.