By Awa S Jallow
The West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (ICUN) on Monday conducted a daylong capacity building training for its stakeholders, in The Gambia to design, implement, and sustain Nature Based Solutions (NBS) as part of the kotu stream restoration works which is the main focus of WACA project.
Mariama Ndow Jarju, Project Coordinator from the ministry of Environment emphasizes that the success of nature based solutions hinges on long-term commitment, cross sectoral coordination, and the inclusion of local knowledge and community voices, particularly positioning youth as leaders in resilience building efforts.
Mariama stated that the WACA project is uniquely positioned to advance nature based solutions through regional collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity building, contributing to a shared vision for a resilient West Africa.
The international implementing unit in Dakar supports the workshop which intends to deepen stakeholders knowledge of nature based solutions, especially in the context of mitigating river flooding and erosion.
Dr. Modou Lamin Sanyang, Director of the WACA project, highlighted the importance of the training. “It will not only enhance knowledge but also in fostering the skills needed to integrate these ecological approaches into the planning and execution of infrastructure projects.” he said.
He stated the urgency needed for collaboration among diverse stakeholders to ensure sustainable and inclusive outcomes.
The kotu stream protects over two hundred thousand residents from flooding and pollution while promoting ecological and community resilience.
Through such proactive initiatives, The Gambia is solidifying it’s role as a champion for green solutions in shaping the urban future of the nation and the wider West African regions.
