ACCESS4ALL Group

In the drought-prone Barind tract of Thakurgaon, the Indigenous Santal community is showing us that the most effective climate adaptation often lies in reviving the past.

Facing erratic rainfall and water scarcity, they launched a Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) initiative centred on community seed banks and traditional mixed cropping. Instead of relying on vulnerable hybrid monocultures, elders and women led a collective shift back to drought-tolerant indigenous varieties—millets, pulses, and local rice—prioritising food security over profit.

Traditional Practices Driving Success

• Mixed Cropping: Diverse crops retain soil moisture and reduce pest risks.

• Seed Sovereignty: Community-managed seed banks preserve genetic diversity.

• Nature-Based Housing: Mud and bamboo homes stay cool during heatwaves.

A good example of Community Based Adaptation (CBA) in Ghana can be seen in community led mangrove restoration and sustainable fishing practices in coastal communities such as Ada and Keta.

Challenge addressed• The initiative addresses coastal erosion, declining fish stocks, and flooding, which are worsening due to climate change and rising sea levels.• The loss of mangroves had reduced natural coastal protection and fish breeding habitats, affecting livelihoods in fishing communities.

Community engagement in planning and decision making• Local fishermen, women fish processors, and traditional leaders participate in meetings and community discussions before restoration activities begin.• Community members are directly involved in planting, protecting, and monitoring mangrove forests, ensuring local ownership of the project.

Outcomes and impacts• Restoration of mangrove ecosystems has helped reduce coastal erosion, improve fish breeding habitats, and strengthen coastal protection against storm surges.• The initiative has also improved livelihoods and environmental awareness within the community.

Traditional or indigenous…

One successful CBA in my community is that of Tree planting to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change. This initiative was launched by the Local Council to see that Environmental Friendly Trees are planted, the community took it personal after learning about the benefits.

People gathered on days and planted trees along water areas, reaforestation was widely carried out. This led to great reduction in water shortages as these trees where friendly to the environment.

These practices are connected to local transitions in that in the past, tree especially rafia was seen as producer of water which our forefathers usually plant them and sooner water emerged in those areas.

One challenge that has been addressed is water scarcity and reduction of green house gases into the atmosphere as a result of these trees.

Example of a Successful CBA/LLA Practice in My Community

In my community in Abuja, local farmers have long relied on rainwater harvesting and traditional soil conservation techniques to cope with irregular rainfall and flooding. This practice addresses the challenge of water scarcity during dry seasons and soil erosion during heavy rains.

Community Engagement: Decisions about where to dig retention pits, plant cover crops, and maintain terraces are made collectively during village meetings, with elders and farmers sharing knowledge passed down through generations.

Outcomes/Impacts: These methods have improved crop yields, reduced soil loss, and increased water availability for household and agricultural use. They also reinforce community cohesion through shared responsibility.

Traditional Practices: Indigenous knowledge includes planting drought-resistant crops, rotating farms to let soil recover, and using natural mulches. These practices are still widely used but are sometimes supplemented with modern fertilizers or irrigation systems.

Connection to Traditions: These practices are deeply tied…

In the Ouémé Valley in Benin, rural populations face several challenges related to climate change, including seasonal flooding, irregular rainfall, and declining soil fertility. To cope with these challenges, communities have developed traditional adaptation practices based on local knowledge. Among these practices are farming on raised mounds or ridges to protect crops from flooding, crop diversification, and observing natural signs to anticipate seasonal changes.

Local populations actively participate in decision-making through community discussions involving traditional leaders and farmers. These practices have helped reduce agricultural losses and strengthen the resilience of communities. However, they are sometimes threatened by rural migration, generational changes, and the lack of institutional recognition. Integrating this local knowledge into modern adaptation strategies could strengthen efforts to address the impacts of climate change.

In my Community Based Adaptation strategy initiative at my Local Community in Kenya which is in the Southern part of Coast Region, is the prolonged drought followed by heavy rains which contributes floods. The flooded areas is always swampy and the terrain to rich is tiresome. Over the years, the local has been planting crops like rice, arrow roots and bananas. The area soil is saline and sliding.

Here crop production is always challenging due a lot of salinity and swampy topography.

During rain season, the community suffer a lot due to poor road network and loose dykes which negatively impact the farming activities.

Despite the NGOs and Government intervention there is still a lot of problem though the all stakeholders have tried their best to help.

The NGOs and Government of Kenya has best help the community in planning and making decision for a long time through trainings an…

In many coastal and riverine areas of Bangladesh, communities face frequent flooding, waterlogging, and increasing climate variability. One successful Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) practice observed in our region is the use of floating gardens (locally known as “Baira” cultivation).

Challenge AddressedThis initiative addresses the problem of prolonged flooding and waterlogging, which often destroys traditional crop fields and threatens food security for rural households.

Community Engagement in Planning and Decision-MakingLocal farmers played a central role in planning and implementing this practice. The knowledge of constructing floating beds using water hyacinth, bamboo, and organic materials comes from traditional indigenous farming practices passed down through generations. NGOs and development projects later supported communities by providing training, seeds, and small financial assistance, but the design and management remained largely community-led.

Outcomes and ImpactsThe floating gardens have produced several positive outcomes:

• Farmers can grow vegetables even during the flood season.

• Household food security has improved.

An identical Community Based Adaptation strategy initiative at my Local Community ( Wassa Kwabeng, Western Region, Ghana, Africa.) is the Fight against Sanitation, Deforestation and Galamsey activities . Over the years, Sanitation issues became very dominant among the people of Wassa Kwabeng. Improper Disposal of Waste, Open space defecation, Choked gutters which resulted to poor drainage and many more. These challenges led to a widespread of diseases such as Cholera, Dysentery, Malaria, Typhoids and others. Lifes were lost because of poor medical treatments at the local community. These problems persisted until 2017, where community leaders sat and made decisions about how to handle these problems. Afterwards, A Durbar was held, Inhabitants were educated on proper ways of waste disposal and other sanitation methods. Also, the community members were advised to refrain from open space defecation and use the Public toilets provided by the community. From then, A new rule was…

An example of a successful Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) within my community is the MWARES project, executed in the Manafwa watershed, located in eastern Uganda, by Africa 2000 Network Uganda (A2N) in collaboration with Wageningen University. This initiative specifically addressed the recurrent issues of landslides and soil erosion, which are exacerbated by intense rainfall on the steep slopes of Mt. Elgon. These environmental hazards have frequently resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of individuals, destruction of homes, and a decline in agricultural productivity within the Manafwa watershed.

Local people were actively engaged through participatory vulnerability assessments, wherein farmers identified the climatic challenges they faced, as well as the potential causes, impacts, and solutions. Community dialogues and farmer-led planning were also integral to the process. Elders, local leaders, women, and youth contributed indigenous knowledge regarding slope management, settlement patterns, and rainfall behavior. Community members selected priority adaptation actions and participated directly in their implementation.…

The intersection of Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) and indigenous knowledge is where climate resilience moves from being a theoretical policy to a lived reality. When communities use "ancestral technology"—practices honed over centuries—they aren't just surviving; they are asserting their identity against a changing climate.

A Case Study in CBA: The "Sorjan" System

In various coastal and deltaic regions, a standout example of Community-Based Adaptation is the Sorjan farming system. This traditional practice addresses the dual challenge of rising sea levels and soil salinity, which often render standard flat-land farming impossible.

The Initiative: Instead of fighting the water, farmers create a series of high ridges and deep furrows. They plant dry-land crops (like vegetables or fruit trees) on the ridges and water-tolerant crops (like rice or fish) in the furrows.

Engagement: This isn't a top-down NGO project. Planning happens at the household and village level, where "Water Committees" decide on the…

In India, one meaningful example of locally led adaptation is the revival of Johads in Rajasthan. Johads are traditional earthen water harvesting structures built to collect and store rainwater in drought prone areas. Rajasthan has always faced water scarcity, but with changing rainfall patterns and frequent droughts due to climate change, the situation became more serious. Groundwater levels were falling rapidly because of overuse of borewells, and many farmers were struggling to sustain their crops.

Local communities played a central role in bringing Johads back. Villagers came together to identify old and damaged water structures, contributed labor through collective community work, and participated in decisions about where and how to rebuild them. NGOs supported the process, but the planning and management largely remained in the hands of the community. Local water committees were formed to ensure maintenance and fair use of water.

The impact has been significant. Groundwater levels improved,…

In my community in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, flooding and coastal erosion are major challenges that threaten livelihoods, particularly for small-scale fishers and farmers. A successful Locally-Led Adaptation (LLA) initiative has been the community-led mangrove restoration program. Local people are actively involved in planning, planting, and monitoring mangrove belts, with women’s cooperatives and youth groups taking central roles.

Outcomes have included:

• Stabilized shorelines reducing flood damage

• Improved fish stocks and alternative income sources

• Strengthened community cohesion and environmental stewardship

Traditional practices, such as building raised platforms for homes and fish drying racks and using local knowledge of tidal patterns, have guided these interventions. These practices are still widely used, though some are threatened by urbanization and industrial pressures. By integrating these traditions into modern LLA strategies, communities can design cost-effective, culturally appropriate, and sustainable adaptation measures.

Short Answer – Uttar Bedkashi Union:

Challenge Addressed: Frequent flooding, salinity intrusion, and cyclone impacts affecting agriculture and livelihoods.

Community Engagement: Local farmers, fishers, and women’s groups participate in planning embankment maintenance, saline-tolerant crop selection, and disaster preparedness drills.

Outcomes: Improved crop yields, safer homes, enhanced resilience to cyclones, and strengthened community coordination.

Traditional Practices: Raised homesteads, seasonal cropping calendars, rainwater harvesting, and community cyclone shelters.

Effectiveness: These practices still reduce climate risks but are partially replaced by modern techniques like high-yield seeds and mechanized water management.

In Harare and other parts of Zimbabwe, climate change has brought low rainfall and prolonged droughts, disrupting a livelihood system long dependent on rain-fed agriculture. The October–March rainy season, once reliable for growing staple crops like maize, has become unpredictable, causing crops to wither before maturity. In response to water shortages, especially in urban areas where tap water is often scarce, local residents have organized themselves into community groups to raise funds and drill boreholes. Each group selects a leader to coordinate contributions and oversee construction, demonstrating grassroots planning and collective decision-making. This initiative addresses water insecurity by shifting responsibility and action to local people. As a result, communities have become more united, sharing water from communal boreholes. However, agricultural production remains strained, as not everyone can afford irrigation, and rural households that depend solely on rainfall continue to face hunger.

Traditionally, adaptation was embedded in local governance and culture. Chiefs…

A great example of Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) or Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) in Northern Nigeria is community-driven flood and heat adaptation initiatives in parts of Kaduna State.

The challenge addressed is increasing urban flooding, heat stress, and erratic rainfall linked to climate change and rapid urban growth.

Local people were engaged through town hall meetings, youth-led awareness campaigns (similar to your “Turn It Off. Cool The Planet” model), and community sanitation drives. Traditional leaders, women’s groups, and youth associations contributed to identifying flood-prone areas and proposing drainage clearing, tree planting, and early warning communication systems.

Outcomes include improved drainage maintenance, increased climate awareness, reduced flood impacts in some neighborhoods, and stronger community ownership of environmental action.

Traditional practices in the region include:

1. Mixed cropping and early-maturing crop varieties to manage rainfall uncertainty

Introduction In my region of Tangail, located in the central floodplain of Bangladesh, we face the dual challenge of intensified seasonal flooding and severe riverbank erosion caused by the Jamuna and Dhaleshwari rivers. As climate change makes monsoon cycles more unpredictable, traditional land-based farming is becoming increasingly risky.

What challenge does the initiative address? The primary challenge is the loss of cultivable land due to prolonged waterlogging and the erosion of homesteads. To combat this, our community has revitalized and scaled "Floating Gardens" (locally known as Baira) and "Integrated Bio-Fencing" using local bamboo and brushwood to slow down water velocity and trap sediment.

How were local people engaged in planning and decision-making? Decisions are made through "Uthan Baithaks" (courtyard meetings). Village elders, who possess historical knowledge of water flow patterns, lead the planning. The community decides collectively where to place the floating beds and which indigenous aquatic plants (like water…

In my community in Northeast India, seasonal flooding and urban waterlogging are major climate challenges. A successful Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) initiative involves collaboration between residents and municipal authorities for pre-monsoon drain cleaning, wetland protection, and flood awareness campaigns.

The initiative addresses urban flooding. Local people participate in meetings, report drainage issues, and volunteer in preparedness activities. This shared involvement improves coordination and accountability. As a result, some areas have experienced reduced waterlogging and improved community awareness.

Traditionally, the region relied on wetlands (beels), raised housing structures, bamboo-based construction, community ponds, and seasonal crop adjustments. These practices were closely linked to local culture and environmental knowledge. However, rapid urbanization and modern infrastructure have reduced their use, increasing vulnerability in some cases.

Under the Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) framework, traditional wetland conservation and climate-responsive housing can be integrated into modern urban planning. Barriers include land-use change, policy neglect, and declining transmission of…

One of the most relevant examples in my community that can be linked to Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) and Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) is an initiative aimed at strengthening sustainable agricultural practices through cooperation between the local agricultural extension unit and farmers’ associations in rural villages.

1. What challenge does the initiative address?

The initiative responds to recurring droughts, irregular rainfall patterns, and declining agricultural productivity. These challenges have intensified due to accelerating climate change, directly affecting farmers’ livelihoods and increasing economic and social vulnerability in rural areas.

2. How were local people engaged in planning and decision-making?

In the specific area I am referring to, local engagement was limited. Village committees and farmers’ associations were not fully activated as representative bodies to negotiate with governmental or donor institutions. No inclusive local consultative council was established to involve farmers, women, and youth in decision-making. Additionally, practical training sessions on dryland farming,…

Adivasis (Tribal communities) hold a huge legacy in shaping the history of Kerala. They are one of the oldest dwellers of Kerala and play a crucial role in maintaining the equilibrium of ecosystems. Most of the adivasi  communities are now restricted to highlands, close to dense mountain forests of Western Ghats. Living close to nature for centuries, these communities have passed down indigenous knowledge systems through generations that have ensured their survival in the forests. However, with the rising impact of climate change and extreme weather events combined with negligence from the govt, these communities are forced to choose between death and survival. Heavy rainfall and landslides are a major threat for the tribal people of Kerala. Traditional knowledge systems coupled with govt support can go a long way in uplifting these communities. It is imperative that the tribal heritage of Kerala be preserved, as it has shaped our history since…

In my community in Nyeri County, climate change has increasingly affected our livelihoods through unpredictable rainfall, prolonged dry seasons, soil erosion on steep slopes, and water shortages. Since most households depend on small-scale farming, these challenges directly threaten food security and income.

Local people in my community have been actively involved in planning and decision-making through community meetings, farmer groups, women’s self-help groups, and guidance from elders. Decisions about farming methods, soil conservation, and water management are largely made at the local level, based on our lived experiences and shared knowledge. This reflects both Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) and Locally Led Adaptation (LLA), as solutions are identified and implemented by the community itself rather than imposed from outside.

One of the most successful outcomes of these initiatives has been improved soil conservation and water management. Practices such as terracing on slopes, mixed cropping, and agroforestry have helped reduce soil erosion, retain soil moisture,…

It is unfortunate I cannot readily lay evidence on an instance where a CBA/ LLA strategy was used to adapt to climate crisis. The immediate intervention that comes to mind is the Keta Sea Defense Project but that was a nationally led strategy to safeguard community members from harsh tidal waves. Again, I want to emphasize that, if communities can develop strategies to adapt to climate crisis, then stakeholders who are known to be champions of climate security should explore how best the advance some of these local strategies for the safeguard of life on earth. It saves high expenditures on climate adaptation/ mitigation technologies.

A successful Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) practice I have observed in Chikwawa District is the use of traditional flood-resilient farming and settlement practices along the Shire River, particularly the cultivation of sorghum and millet on elevated land (locally informed land zoning) combined with community-led flood preparedness measures.

Challenge Addressed

This initiative addresses recurrent flooding and prolonged dry spells, which have intensified due to climate change. Chikwawa is highly vulnerable to seasonal floods that destroy crops, displace households, and undermine food security.

Local Engagement in Planning and Decision-Making

Local people—especially village elders, lead farmers, and traditional leaders—played a central role in identifying flood-prone zones and deciding where different crops should be planted. Decisions were informed by historical flood knowledge, oral histories, and long-standing observations of river behavior. Community meetings (msonkhano wa mudzi) were used to agree on farming calendars, crop choices, and settlement boundaries.

Outcomes and Impacts

Example: The Zai Pit System (Soil & Water Restoration) in Chad.

​1. The Challenge & Local Engagement

​The initiative addresses land degradation and desertification. In regions like Burkina Faso and Mali, traditional "Zai" pits—small pits dug into hard-crusted soil—were revived to capture runoff and concentrate nutrients.

​Engagement: The revival was led by local farmers (most notably Yacouba Sawadogo). Because the technique requires heavy manual labor, it relied on communal work parties (Tons), where decisions on which fields to prioritize were made by village elders and farmer groups.

​2. Outcomes and Impacts

​Restoration: Thousands of hectares of formerly "dead" land have been reclaimed.

_{In Uttarakhand, communities have relied on traditional practices to cope with environmental challenges in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem for a long time . These practices such as spring revival, terraced farming, and mixed cropping have always been followed for a long time . Community-Based Adaptation  and Locally Led Adaptation approaches provided a framework to integrate such indigenous knowledge with modern strategies which  ensures nthat adaptation is inclusive, sustainable, and fits to the local community.}

_{Example of a Successful CBA/LLA Practice}

_{Initiative: Revival of naulas (traditional stone-lined water tanks) and dharas (community-managed water channels) in hill villages.}

_{1. Challenge Addressed the  water scarcity due to drying springs, erratic rainfall, and climate change impacts on Himalayan region .}

_{2. Local Engagement}

_{Villagers, especially women and elders, identified dried springs and led restoration efforts. NGOs facilitated training, but decision making remained remained in the hnds of community.}

In a certain village in Kogi, north-central Nigeria, the villagers are faced with water challenges during the dry seasons. they live on the mountain top and as such its impossible to dig wells manually and reach water, and also, they can't afford to hire the services of a borehole drilling company. Because of these challenges, they suffer to get water once the rain stops, most times they have to walk a very long distance down the valley to get water and carry the water on their heads while they climb back up.

The community heads came together and brought up the idea of rain water harvesting, so they dug water reservoirs at different locations in the village. with these reservoirs, they were able to store water for the dry seasons.

Zambia, in the past few years has experienced droughts country wide. The prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall in Zambia threaten rain-fed farming and food security.

Local Engagement: Village elders, farmers, and traditional leaders share knowledge through oral traditions and community discussions to plan planting and resource use.

Outcomes: Better crop timing, reduced failure risks via diversified planting (millet, sorghum), improved household food security, and preserved biodiversity.

Traditional Practices: Indigenous weather forecasting (bird/insect behavior, plant signs).

Crop diversification and rotation with drought-tolerant varieties. Protecting wetlands/trees to maintain water sources. Traditional grain storage (smoke, ash, sun-drying).

Effectiveness Today: Still widely used in rural areas, effective against current drought risks

In my community, a powerful example of Locally-led Adaptation (LLA) is the revitalization of communal "sacred groves" and traditional water management systems to combat the increasing frequency of droughts and erratic rainfall. These initiatives address the dual challenge of water scarcity and land degradation. Local engagement is rooted in the traditional authority structure, where community members, led by traditional councils, participate in decision-making through village forums to designate protected areas around vital watersheds. This practice has led to the restoration of local micro-climates and more reliable water access for small-scale farming during the dry season. These strategies are deeply tied to our cultural identity, as they treat the environment as a shared ancestral heritage rather than just a resource to be exploited.

Traditional practices such as staggered planting and the use of drought-resistant indigenous seeds remain vital for adaptation in the region, though they are increasingly threatened by a shift toward modern,…

Living with Water: Floating Gardens as Community-Based Adaptation in Bangladesh

As a Bangladeshi citizen, one successful example of Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) that I have observed is the floating garden system, locally known as Baira or Dhap. This practice is common in flood-prone and wetland regions such as Gopalganj, Barishal, Pirojpur, and parts of Sunamganj, where seasonal flooding makes conventional agriculture extremely difficult.

The main challenge this initiative addresses is prolonged flooding and waterlogging, which submerge arable land for several months every year. With climate change intensifying rainfall and flood duration, these risks have increased, directly threatening food security and livelihoods. Floating gardens allow communities to adapt by growing vegetables on floating beds made of water hyacinth, bamboo, and other locally available materials.

Climate tolerant and short maturity crops are the comunity-based adaptation measures that I have observed my community farmers practices to address the climate change impact on their farming.

This adaptation measures address delay in rainfall pattern, drought and short duration of rainfall.

Local people were involved in the decision-making through active participation, repenstation of farm groups members, capacity and skills building, accessibility of drought tolerant seeds, financial support to purchase drought tolerant seeds, innovative farming practices to reduce GHG emissions, ehnance and increase productivity and to build resilience, and knowledge learning and sharing networks from across other adjourning communities.

This initiative has increased productivity through farm produce, enhanced farmers' capacity and skills in climate smart agriculture practices, enhnaced farmers' resilience and diversification of livelihood, among others.

Farmers use birds and trees and other traditional ways of predicting rainfall (early or late rain) pattern, flooding and traditional crops to grow.

Community Based Organisations (CBOs) Coalition Malawi.

This local coalition represents numerous grassroots CBOs and focuses on empowering communities in climate action initiatives, including carbon trading and ensuring transparency in benefit sharing arrangements from voluntary carbon markets. 

Community Based Organizations (CBOs) play a crucial role in empowering local populations to prepare for, cope with, and adapt to climate change effects such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves. Their role is centered on leveraging local knowledge, building capacity, and implementing practical, context specific interventions that build long term resilience. 

Promoting Climate-Resilient Livelihoods and Agriculture to combat effects like erratic rains and drought, CBOs support practices that improve food security and diversify income sources in a diverse communities.

In my community in Ethiopia, one successful CBA initiative is traditional rainwater harvesting for small-scale irrigation in drought-prone areas.

Challenge Addressed:The initiative primarily addresses water scarcity and food insecurity caused by irregular rainfall and recurrent droughts.

Local Engagement:Local farmers actively participate in planning and decision-making. Villagers decide collectively where to construct small ponds or terraces, manage water allocation, and maintain the structures. Traditional elders often guide the process, combining their knowledge of the land and rainfall patterns with community consensus.

Outcomes/Impacts:

• Improved access to water for crops during dry periods

• Increased crop yields and food security

The "Pokkali-Mangrove" Integrated Model addresses the dual threats of rising sea levels and increasing salinity that jeopardize traditional paddy farming and coastal safety in regions like Alappuzha and Ernakulam. Local communities are engaged in planning by revitalizing the Pokkali farming system, an ancient, saline-tolerant rice cultivation method that alternates with shrimp farming. In this model, farmers and local self-government institutions (Panchayats) lead the decision-making process to plant mangroves along the bunds of these fields. These "bio-shields" act as natural barriers against storm surges and soil erosion while the Pokkali rice provides food security, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that relies on the community's deep-rooted knowledge of tidal patterns.

The outcomes of this initiative have been significant, as the integrated approach provides a diversified income for farmers through organic rice and shrimp while restoring local biodiversity. These practices are deeply connected to the identity of coastal Kerala, where the Pokkali tradition represents a historic adaptation…

A successful Community-Based Adaptation practice in my community is community-led water harvesting and rangeland management in drought-prone pastoral areas of Somalia. This initiative addresses the growing challenge of recurrent drought, water scarcity, livestock loss, and food insecurity, which are intensified by climate change and erratic rainfall.

Local people — especially elders, women, and youth — were actively involved in planning water catchments, rehabilitating berkads (traditional water reservoirs), protecting grazing zones, and developing seasonal grazing agreements. Community committees managed resources and resolved conflicts, ensuring local ownership and sustainability.

The initiative has improved water access, livestock survival, food security, and social cohesion, while reducing displacement and conflict over resources. Women benefited through reduced water collection burdens and improved household resilience.

Traditional practices such as rotational grazing, seasonal migration routes, rainwater harvesting, and community drought early warning based on indigenous indicators (wind patterns, livestock behavior, vegetation cycles) remain relevant today. While some are declining due…

Urban communities where I live in my country are commonly known for climate advocacy programmes; however, many vulnerable rural communities rely on locally developed methods to survive in this era of increasing climate uncertainty. A good example is the use of rainwater harvesting systems, which allow households to collect and store water during the rainy season for use during prolonged dry periods. The design of these systems varies from community to community and from household to household, depending on available materials, roof structures, and storage capacity. 

Local people are actively involved in the planning and management of these systems, often constructing storage tanks, gutters, and filtration methods using indigenous knowledge and community labor. The outcome has been improved water security for domestic use and small-scale farming, particularly during dry seasons. Under the Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) framework, rainwater harvesting and related indigenous practices can be strengthened through technical support, micro-financing,…

My initiative focuses on addressing climate-related challenges such as flooding, poor waste management, air pollution, and low public awareness about environmental protection. During my SIWES at the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, I observed how blocked drainage systems, indiscriminate dumping of waste, and vehicle emissions worsen flooding and air quality, especially around busy areas like bus stops.

Local people were engaged through informal discussions, public sensitization, and observation-based feedback. For example, traders, transport workers, and residents shared their experiences of how flooding and pollution affect their daily lives. This helped shape awareness campaigns that focused on practical actions people could easily adopt.

The initiative has improved awareness about climate change, environmental hygiene, and sustainable practices. It has encouraged people, especially youths, to take responsibility for waste disposal, tree planting, and environmental protection. It has also helped build leadership skills and community participation in climate action.

include:

Using natural ventilation…

Masvingo Food Commodities which I facilitated its conception was/is a community based social enterprise involved in commodity production and trading, It is based in one of the driest regions of Zimbabwe albeit it holds more than 50 percent of man made water bodies. However it faces recurrent droughst and the majority of the households are food insecure dure to droughts and heat waves consequently as a result of climate change.

Communities from dryland and irrigated farming areas formed farmer producer groups which combined to form commodity associations for the respective crops. The associations then came together and mandated the formation of a cooperative company where farmers hold shareholding.

They selected board members from their leadership of commodity associations and farmer groups to be the board of directors. The board of directors then appointed the secretariat to run the day to day business of the company.600 farmers became shareholders, a cooperative…

In Ghana, the problem of climate change has been rising and dominating the livelihoods, especially in the rural populations, where rural populations are largely farming and natural resource based. Increased temperatures, unpredictable rain and extended dry periods, and frequent floods have exerted a high strain on the food system and availability of water. Nevertheless, it is possible to see that traditional knowledge and community-based practices are still used in many communities as they strive to adapt to these challenges. One such community-based Adaptation (CBA) and Locally-Led Adaptation (LLA) can be seen in some farming communities in the Upper East Region, especially around the Kassena-Nankana region.

Unpredictable rainfall patterns and frequent drought that occurred are the main challenges that have been discussed in this community initiative because these factors have led to low crop production and high food insecurity. The previous season of fairly predictable rainy weather allowed farmers to base…

Last month, we tested a simple circular-economy idea: seed pens (paper pens that can be planted after use).

This wasn’t just a “craft activity” — it was a behaviour-design experiment: Can climate action become simple enough to fit into everyday life?

In 18 days: ✅ 20 teenagers learned the process and produced seed pens

✅ 120+ seed pens were made by youth

✅ 200+ households joined conversations on plastic waste and climate-friendly habits

A successful example of community-based, locally led adaptation in my community is observed in small-scale rainwater harvesting and household water storage practices in low-income neighborhoods. This initiative addresses the challenge of increasing water scarcity and irregular rainfall patterns caused by climate change.

Local residents were actively involved in planning and decision-making through community meetings, during which they identified water shortages as a top priority. Families contributed ideas based on their experience, such as rooftop collection, underground storage tanks, and shared community wells. Local leaders and women’s groups played a central role in organizing and maintaining the systems.

We worked with 5 women and reused 6kg textile waste to create products + climate impact.

Would love your feedback — feel free to drop a comment on the LinkedIn post 😊

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In my community in Jos, Plateau State, one successful community-based adaptation practice is traditional farming methods used to manage changing rainfall and soil conditions. Farmers use practices like terracing, mulching, mixed cropping, and adjusting planting times based on local knowledge of weather patterns. Local people are fully involved, as these practices are passed down through families and shared within farming groups. These methods help reduce soil erosion, retain moisture, and protect crops during irregular rains. They are closely linked to local traditions and farming culture and are still widely used today, although some are being replaced by modern methods. Integrating these practices into modern climate adaptation strategies can strengthen resilience, but challenges include youth migration, low policy support, and limited access to resources.

In my coastal community, a successful Locally-led Adaptation initiative is the revival of traditional “bund” farming, which uses raised, saline-tolerant mounds to grow vegetables in flood-prone areas. This practice addresses salinization and seasonal flooding that threaten food security.

Local women’s self-help groups led the planning, choosing crops and designing layouts based on ancestral knowledge, with an NGO providing supplemental seeds and training. This has boosted household nutrition and reduced market dependency.

Traditional practices like rainwater harvesting in earthen pots (matkas) and cyclone-resilient housing designs using local bamboo are still used but declining due to concrete construction and youth migration. These methods are deeply tied to cultural identity and practical wisdom.

To integrate them into LLA, policy could fund community-led demonstration plots and include elders in adaptation planning. Barriers include lack of policy recognition, dwindling knowledge transmission, and preference for modern, often less suitable, solutions.

A successful CBA/LLA practice I have observed in my community is the community-led mangrove restoration and adaptive livelihood development in the Anloga District, coastal Ghana. This initiative addresses coastal erosion, tidal flooding, declining fish stocks, and livelihood insecurity, all of which have been intensified by climate change and sea level rise.

Local people especially fisherfolk, women, and youth groups were actively involved from the planning stage through community meetings, participatory vulnerability assessments, and site selection for mangrove restoration. Traditional authorities, Assembly memebers and community elders played a key role in granting access to land and enforcing community rules that protect restored mangrove sites. Women’s groups have been central in seedling preparation and monitoring, ensuring local ownership.

The restored mangroves have helped reduce shoreline erosion, buffer tidal flooding, and improve fish breeding habitats. Communities report improved awareness of climate risks, stronger collective action, and the emergence of adaptive livelihoods such as…

In my community, one notable Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) practice is the planting of bamboo along the Nyabarongo River. This initiative addresses multiple environmental and climate-related challenges, including soil erosion, riverbank degradation, and flooding, which are becoming more frequent due to climate variability.

Community Engagement:Local communities were actively involved from the start. Farmers, local leaders, and youth groups participated in mapping vulnerable areas along the riverbanks, selecting bamboo species, and planning planting schedules. Decision-making was participatory, with knowledge sharing sessions combining traditional practices of land management with scientific guidance on riverbank stabilization.

Outcomes and Impacts:The initiative has achieved tangible environmental and social benefits. Bamboo roots stabilize soil, reduce erosion, and slow water runoff, thereby minimizing flooding risks. In addition, bamboo provides economic opportunities, as it can be harvested sustainably for construction, handicrafts, and furniture, giving communities an incentive to maintain the plantings. This has strengthened local resilience to climate impacts while…

A successful example of Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) I have observed in my community is a community-led flood management and drainage maintenance initiative in a flood-prone urban area. Seasonal flooding had repeatedly damaged homes, disrupted livelihoods, and increased health risks, particularly for low-income households.

Challenge addressed the initiative addressed frequent flooding caused by heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and blocked waterways—an issue worsened by climate change and rapid urbanization.

Community engagement and decision-making Local residents, including community elders, youth groups, and women’s associations, were actively involved in identifying flood hotspots, prioritizing actions, and organizing regular drainage clean-up activities. Decision-making was participatory, with community meetings used to agree on roles, responsibilities, and maintenance schedules. Local leaders acted as coordinators rather than decision-makers, reinforcing community ownership.

Outcomes and impacts the initiative significantly reduced flood duration and property damage during the rainy season. It also strengthened social cohesion, increased awareness of climate risks, and fostered a sense…

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The Kaya forests of the Mijikenda Community in Kenya are living heritage as sacred spaces stewarded by local elders and rules that bind nature, identity and responsibility. Framing them as CBA/LLA highlights how culture anchors climate resilience.

Challenge Addressed

• Deforestation and biodiversity loss - The shrines protect remnants of Kenya’s coastal forest, conserving biodiversity under traditional governance and taboos that restrict access and resource use.

• Climate vulnerability and food security - The Kaya system supports local adaptation and food security through preserved microclimates, wild foods, and ecosystem services that buffer climate shocks.

Kenya has demonstrated successful Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) and Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) practices through initiatives such as community water harvesting, climate-smart agriculture, community forest management, and the use of indigenous early-warning systems. These locally driven approaches empower communities to identify climate risks, design context-appropriate solutions, and manage natural resources sustainably, thereby improving food security, water availability, ecosystem conservation, and overall climate resilience.

In my community in southwestern Nigeria, one successful example of Community-Based Adaptation is the use of community-led flood management and local drainage maintenance, especially during the rainy season. Flooding has become a recurring challenge due to increased rainfall intensity, poor urban planning, and blocked waterways—an issue that has been worsened by climate change.

Challenge AddressedThe initiative addresses seasonal flooding, which often leads to property damage, disrupted livelihoods, waterborne diseases, and restricted movement within the community.Community Engagement and Decision-MakingLocal people are actively involved in identifying flood-prone areas, deciding when community clean-up exercises should happen, and assigning roles. Community leaders, youth groups, and landlords’ associations coordinate regular drainage clearing and awareness efforts. Decisions are not imposed from outside; they are driven by residents who experience the impacts firsthand. This reflects a strong CBA approach and aligns with LLA principles of local ownership and agency.

Outcomes and ImpactsThe outcomes have been largely positive.…

One successful example of community-based adaptation I have observed in Eswatini is the revival of traditional rangeland management practices in several rural chiefdoms, particularly in the Lubombo and Shiselweni regions. These areas have been facing increasing drought, land degradation, and declining grazing capacity due to climate change.

Challenge Addressed

The initiative responds to recurrent droughts, soil erosion, and declining pasture quality, which threaten livestock assets for many rural households.

Local Engagement in Planning and Decision-Making

Local people were involved through chiefdom meetings (sibaya), where herders, women’s groups, and community leaders discussed grazing challenges and agreed on seasonal grazing rotations. Traditional authorities played a central role, but decisions were shaped by community consultations rather than imposed externally. This reflects a genuine CBA/LLA approach, where local knowledge guided the process.

Outcomes and Impacts

1. Government Entities

Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC)

The primary government ministry overseeing Sierra Leone’s climate initiatives, including National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), and coordinating frameworks for climate action that foster community engagement and resilience. Collaborates with national partners to incorporate adaptation across all levels.

Environmental Protection Agency Sierra Leone (EPA SL)

A regulatory body under MECC that enforces environmental laws, climate change programs, and community based adaptation initiatives like the Sierra Leone Coastal Resilience Project (SLCRP), aimed at enhancing local ecosystem-based adaptation and resilience in coastal regions.

2. National Civil Society and Community Organizations

Government / statutory bodies

• National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) – Leads national climate strategy and collaborates with agencies and communities on adaptation planning and finance. Climate Council

• National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) – Supports community restoration and adaptation against land degradation and desertification across northern states. Wikipedia

• Federal Ministry of Environment / Department of Climate Change – Coordinates adaptation plans, policy, and capacity building across local governments. Radio Nigeria

Civil society & NGOs

• Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) – Works on climate adaptation, climate-smart agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Wikipedia

ne successful Community Based Adaptation practice I have observed in my community in Eastern Rwanda is the use of community led water harvesting and soil conservation practices to cope with increasing droughts and irregular rainfall.

Challenge AddressedThe main challenge this initiative addresses is recurrent drought, water scarcity, and declining agricultural productivity. Rainfall has become more unpredictable, affecting crop yields and household water availability.

Engagement of Local PeopleLocal people were actively involved from the beginning. Community members participated in identifying water stress as a priority problem, selecting suitable sites for rainwater harvesting, and deciding which crops to prioritize. Elders, farmers, women, and youth all contributed their knowledge and labor. Decisions were made through community meetings rather than imposed by external actors.

Outcomes and ImpactsThe initiative has improved access to water for irrigation and domestic use, reduced crop failure, and strengthened food security. Soil erosion has decreased due to terracing and mulching practices.…

In Zomba, Malawi, a notable Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) initiative involves community-managed contour bunds and early warning systems on the slopes of Mount Mulanje to combat landslides and floods. The initiative tackles frequent landslides and soil erosion from heavy rains, intensified by climate change, which threaten farming and homes in this hilly, flood-prone region.

Communities participate through village committees that leadplanning, select sites using local maps, and decide on measures like contour bunds during participatory workshops. The project has reduced soil loss by 40%, boosted crop yields via agroforestry, and saved lives via timely alerts, fostering economic stability.

Traditional practices in the region include intercropping maize with legumes and using contour ridges, rooted in Chewa traditions for soil retention. Bamboo or thatch irrigation channels are used for rainwater harvesting, and brick houses with thatched roofs are elevated on platforms for flood protection. Oral weather forecasting from cloud patterns and bird behavior…

A practical example of a successful community-based adaptation practice observable in north-western Zambia is Community Forest Management (CFM) under the Forestry Department, implemented through Community Forest Management Groups (CFMGs). Although primarily framed as a conservation and livelihoods initiative, in practice it functions as a community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) system that directly supports climate adaptation, particularly in forest-dependent rural settings such as Zambezi District.

Climate-related challenge addressed

The initiative responds to deforestation, declining forest-based livelihoods, and increasing climate variability, notably prolonged dry spells, unpredictable rainfall, and seasonal flooding. These stresses have weakened subsistence farming systems and intensified reliance on charcoal production and unsustainable timber harvesting. By formalising community rights and responsibilities over forest resources, CFM addresses both environmental degradation and livelihood vulnerability, which are core drivers of climate risk.

Local engagement in planning and decision-making

Local people are engaged through elected Community Forest Management Groups, which participate in forest boundary…

In Baidoa, Somalia, climate change is not just a problem we hear about. It affects people’s daily lives. Droughts, unpredictable rains, and soil erosion make it hard for communities to get water, grow food, and support their families. For many years, people could only react after disasters happened, with little chance to plan ahead.

The Community Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) changed this. Local committees such as Village Development Committees and Natural Resource Management Committees were not just helped, they led the process. Community members came together to talk about the problems they face, share ideas, and agree on practical actions for their villages.

In one village, water scarcity was the biggest challenge. The community worked together to fix a shallow well, making sure families had water during the dry season. In another village, soil was being washed away, so people organized workdays to build soil barriers and plant drought-resistant…

In my community, a notable locally-led adaptation practice is the revival of rainwater harvesting and household-level water storage systems in drought-prone rural areas. The initiative addresses increasing water scarcity, irregular rainfall, and declining groundwater levels driven by climate change.

Local people were engaged from the beginning through village meetings, women’s self-help groups, farmer committees, and youth volunteers. Community members helped identify water-stressed households, selected storage locations, contributed labor, and participated in maintenance planning. Decision-making power remained largely with community institutions rather than external agencies, aligning strongly with LLA principles.

This initiative has led to improved household water security, reduced burden on women and girls, greater resilience during dry seasons, and reduced dependence on distant water sources. Traditional knowledge played a central role, elders shared earlier practices of mud-lined ponds, stepwells, and seasonal water storage, which had gradually disappeared with the expansion of tube wells.

These practices are deeply connected to local identity…

In Mbale, Uganda, a notable CBA initiative involves community-managed terraces and early warning systems on Mount Elgon's slopes to combat landslides and floods.​

Challenge Addressed: The initiative tackles frequent landslides and soil erosion from heavy rains, intensified by climate change, which threaten farming and homes in this hilly, flood-prone region.​

Local Engagement: Communities participate through village committees that lead planning, select sites using local maps, and decide on measures like terracing during participatory workshops.​

Outcomes and Impacts: It has reduced soil loss by 40%, boosted crop yields via agroforestry, and saved lives via timely alerts, fostering economic stability.​

Traditional Practices in Region

• Farming: Intercropping bananas with coffee and terracing, rooted in Bagisu traditions for soil retention.

In Katsina State, a successful example of Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) and Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) is the use of traditional water harvesting, soil conservation, and agroforestry practices by rural farming communities, especially in areas affected by desertification and recurrent drought.

Challenge Addressed

The initiative addresses declining rainfall, increasing drought frequency, soil degradation, desert encroachment, and food insecurity, which threaten livelihoods across Katsina State.

Community Engagement

Local farmers, village heads, elders, and farmer associations are actively involved in planning and implementation. Decisions about planting times, land use, and soil conservation are made through community meetings and traditional leadership structures, ensuring strong local ownership.

Outcomes and Impacts

In my community the Community based adaptation and locally led adaptation focuses on Mangrove restoration and Conservation along Kilifi creek located in coastal region of Kenya which is led by Community based environmental conservation groups which are non governmental organisations and youth-led initiatives.

The initiatives are vital in addressing climate change hazards such as storm surges, coastal erosion,a drastic decline in fish stocks and loss biodiversity in coastal ecosystems within kilifi creeks.

In beginning of this initiatives the community members acted as active planners as they were engagement were directly influential to the overall success of the project, through participatory Community risk assessment, the community members identified which creeks it the coastal areas of the town were most vulnerable to climate change hazards. They formed Community Forest Associations to manage nurseries and the decision on which type of the trees such as Mangroves species was driven by local knowledge on…

In Chimanimani, District of Zimbabwe youths are working on rehabilitating gully’s and installing gabions using locally available resources as volunteers. The initiative is helping to reduce massive erosion and land degradation that has been ongoing over the period. The youth volunteers engaged the community leadership to allow them work on the rehabilitation works. In my community the land and water belongs to the traditional leaders and this has helped to preserve wetlands and also other sacred sources of water as well as limiting deforestation.