Successful CBA or LLA Practices in Togo
In Togo, a successful example of community-based adaptation linked to long-term planning is the use of agroforestry and soil and water conservation practices to address declining agricultural productivity caused by irregular rainfall and prolonged dry seasons. This initiative responds to climate risks such as drought, soil degradation, and crop failure, which directly threaten food security and rural livelihoods.
Local populations were actively involved in the planning and decision-making process through village meetings, farmers’ groups, and traditional leaders. Community members identified priority problems, selected appropriate practices, and contributed labor and local knowledge. The initiative resulted in improved soil fertility, more stable crop yields, increased water retention, and reduced vulnerability to drought, while also strengthening community cohesion.
Traditional practices in the region include mixed cropping, the use of organic manure, agroforestry, rainwater harvesting, and the preservation of sacred forests. These practices have proven effective in managing climate risks and are still used today, although in some areas they are being replaced by short-term, input-intensive approaches. Their strength lies in their deep connection to local values, cultural norms, and respect for land and natural resources.
These traditional practices can be integrated into modern adaptation strategies by combining them with climate information services, improved seed varieties, and community-based monitoring within long-term adaptation frameworks. However, obstacles remain, including limited policy support, migration of young people, generational knowledge loss, and dependence on externally driven solutions.
Successful adaptation initiatives in the region include community-led agroecology projects and mangrove restoration efforts supported by local authorities and NGOs, which blend traditional knowledge with scientific approaches. These examples demonstrate that integrating traditional practices into long-term, community-led adaptation strategies enhances resilience, local ownership, and sustainability.