ACCESS4ALL Group

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 😊

👉 https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jobayer-bin-hossain_amranotunnetwork-bracyouthplatform-changemakers-activity-7416698024963383296-vr6F?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAECFxr4BkHTjOaMiziguDi6fvt2Xd5bMqac

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…

-----------------------------------------------------------

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.

In my community, agroforestry and terracing are successful Community-Based Adaptation practices used to reduce soil erosion, flooding, and crop losses caused by heavy rainfall. Local farmers and elders actively participate in planning and decision-making through community meetings, ensuring the use of indigenous trees, mixed cropping, and organic manure. These practices have improved soil fertility, stabilized slopes, and strengthened food security, while reflecting local values of land stewardship and cooperation. Although some traditional practices are declining due to migration and reliance on modern inputs, integrating them with technical support and local funding under the Locally-Led Adaptation framework can sustain and scale their impact.

A successful Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) practice I have observed is community-led flood and erosion management in riverine and urban areas of Kinshasa, DRC. Communities living near ravines and flood-prone zones organized themselves to reduce flood risks through traditional drainage maintenance, soil stabilization, and collective early warning practices.

Local people were engaged through community committees, where elders, women, and youth participated in identifying risk areas and organizing collective actions such as clearing drainage channels before the rainy season and reinforcing riverbanks using locally available materials. Decision-making was informal but inclusive, based on local knowledge of rainfall patterns and flood history.

The initiative helped reduce localized flooding, protect homes, and improve community preparedness, even though resources were limited. Traditional practices such as respecting natural water pathways, avoiding construction in sacred or historically flood-prone areas, and communal labor (salongo) played an important role in adaptation.

These practices are closely linked to local values…

Example of a Successful LLA Practice: Community-Managed Water Harvesting in a Drought-Prone Region

1. What challenge does the initiative address?The initiative addresses acute water scarcity and soil degradation caused by prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall, which have threatened agricultural livelihoods and drinking water availability.

2. How were local people engaged in planning and decision-making?Local elders, farmers, and women’s groups led participatory mapping sessions to identify traditional water catchment sites. Decisions on location, design, and management of restored rainwater harvesting structures were made through community assemblies, ensuring alignment with local needs and knowledge.

3. What outcomes or impacts has the initiative achieved?

• Increased groundwater recharge and restored seasonal springs.

• Improved soil moisture, enabling diversified crop cultivation.

The main challenge addressed is seasonal flooding, which has become more frequent and severe due to climate change, blocked waterways, and rapid urbanization.

Local people are deeply involved. Community elders, youth groups, and women’s associations jointly decide when and how drainage channels and natural streams are cleared before the rainy season. Decisions are made through town meetings, not imposed by government or NGOs. The impact has been practical and visible. Floodwater drains faster. Homes and farmlands suffer less damage. Community awareness around waste disposal has improved, reducing blocked drains.

Traditional practices that support adaptation include:

• Respecting natural flood paths and wetlands instead of building on them.

• Using raised housing foundations in flood-prone zones.

• Seasonal farming calendars aligned with rainfall patterns.

This initiative addresses prolonged seasonal flooding, waterlogging, and loss of agricultural land, which have intensified due to climate change. Many farmers are unable to cultivate crops during the monsoon, leading to food insecurity and income loss. Local farmers themselves design, build, and manage floating beds using traditional materials such as water hyacinth, straw, and bamboo. Knowledge is passed down through generations and shared within communities. NGOs and local authorities play a facilitating role, but decision-making largely remains with farmers, reflecting strong locally-led adaptation (LLA) principles.

Outcomes and Impacts

• Enables year-round crop production despite flooding

• Improves household food security and income

• Reduces climate-induced migration

• Empowers women, who are often actively involved in seedling preparation and maintenance

In this region, one notable CBA practice is the revival and enhancement of traditional raised homesteads (“bari” or “chatal”) combined with community-led early warning systems.

Challenge Addressed: The area faces recurrent monsoon flooding, which destroys homes, crops, and livelihoods, and contaminates drinking water.

Local Engagement: The initiative was co-designed through village meetings where elders shared traditional knowledge of flood patterns and indigenous house-raising techniques. Local women’s groups were central in mapping vulnerable households and leading awareness campaigns. Decisions on where to build raised platforms and how to manage early warning tools (like hand-operated sirens and mobile networks) were made by community committees.

Outcomes: Homes and essential supplies are now better protected during floods. The community-managed warning system has reduced emergency response time. Additionally, the practice has strengthened social cohesion and preserved local architectural knowledge.

Traditional Practices & Climate Relevance: Practices such as flood-resistant crop varieties (e.g., deep-water rice), raised seedbeds,…

Ota Flood‑Early‑Warning CBA/LLA

Flash floods in Ota (Ogun State) damage crops, roads and homes; no timely alerts.

How locals were engaged: CLEEN Foundation and Ota Local Council formed a Flood Response Committee — women, youth, farmers, imams, pastors — who co‑mapped risks, chose warning methods (drums + WhatsApp/SMS), and built a low‑cost rain‑gauge sensor.

Outcome: Zero casualties in 2023 (vs 7 deaths before), 42 % drop in crop loss, roads stayed open 95 % of the time; community now sits on council climate sub‑committee.

Traditional Practices in Ota

_Omi‑Iyá_ drum warnings for floods.

One of the CBA practice I have observed in my local community is the way the community preserves best crops as seeds for the next farming season. For maize they choose the best cobs and hang them on the roof of the hut they use for cooking meals. The smoke from the fire and warm temperature keeps the maize dry and remains at the optimal moisture levels for a long time until the planting season arrives. The smoke also prevents and diseases and pest from attacking the maize. However, this practice is slowly dying because of the mushrooming of hybrid seeds that cant be used over and over.

In my village in Azad Kashmir, people used to cut pine trees for cooking, house building, and other uses. This caused deforestation and environmental problems. Later, the government banned tree cutting and started pine tree plantation in the cut areas. Many people switched to gas for cooking, but some still use wood.

This helped protect forests, reduce soil erosion, and improve the local environment. Pine trees also help in dealing with climate change by keeping the land stable and supporting water sources. Tree protection was already part of our local tradition, but it became weaker over time.

To make this better under the LLA approach, the government should educate local people and provide affordable energy alternatives. Poverty and lack of awareness are the main challenges. Still, this example shows that local action with government support can help communities adapt to climate change.

A successful example of Community-Based and Locally Led Adaptation (CBA/LLA) from my community in South Punjab, Pakistan, is the community-led flood preparedness and traditional water-management practices along the Indus floodplains. This initiative primarily addresses the recurring challenge of riverine flooding and water scarcity, which have intensified due to climate change–driven variability in monsoon rainfall and extreme weather events.

Local people—especially farmers, elders, and informal village committees—have historically been engaged in planning and decision-making through collective discussions (jirga-style meetings) to decide where to strengthen embankments, when to adjust cropping calendars, and how to manage shared water resources. These decisions are based on generational knowledge of river behavior, flood timing, and soil conditions. Community members also contribute labor and local materials, ensuring ownership and accountability.

The outcomes of these practices include reduced flood damage to homes and crops, better water retention for agriculture during dry spells, and stronger social cohesion during crises. Traditional practices…

A successful example of community-based and locally led adaptation (CBA/LLA) in my community is neighborhood-level flood and heat-wave preparedness in low-lying areas of Lahore, which addresses climate challenges such as urban flooding, extreme heat, and water scarcity. Local residents were actively involved in identifying risks, planning drainage solutions, sharing early warnings, and deciding collective actions, which strengthened community ownership and coordination. These efforts have reduced damage during extreme events and increased awareness and resilience. Traditional practices in the region such as rainwater storage, shaded courtyards, thick brick walls, and cross-ventilated housing have long helped communities adapt to heat and water stress, though many are now being replaced by modern construction. These practices are closely linked to local culture and values and remain effective in managing climate risks. Integrating them into modern strategies under the LLA framework, alongside policy support, could enhance climate resilience, but barriers like policy neglect, urbanization, and…