The National Environment Agency (NEA) and technical stakeholders have officially validated the integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) and strategic plans for The Gambia. These plans, a product of the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA+) Support Project funded by the European Union, aim to revolutionize the management of The Gambia’s coastal zones.

The plans, which  were validated after a thorough review process, outline the operating policies, processes, and procedures for an ICZM coordinating body. This body will lead a new model of shared leadership and management, ensuring sustainable development and climate resilience along the Gambian coast.

Funded by the European Union in partnership with the Government of The Gambia, the project builds upon the successes of previous initiatives, particularly the “Support to The Gambia for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) and the mainstreaming of climate change” project.

The objectives of the project include supporting the implementation of recommendations from previous plans, enhancing institutional governance, and enabling the planning and implementation of improved climate resilience measures. Key priority areas include addressing natural hazards such as flooding and sea level rise, building resilience in coastal communities, and improving governance and capacity for climate change adaptation.

The project is structured into three technical components, including the institutionalization of the ICZM approach, knowledge management through data collection and analysis, and the implementation of small-scale climate change adaptation measures. It covers the marine zones of The Gambia, including NBR, LRR, WCR, and the GBA.

The validation of these plans marks a significant step forward in The Gambia’s efforts to manage its coastal zones effectively and adapt to the impacts of climate change.