Nature is emerging as one of the most powerful and cost-effective allies in building resilience against disasters across Africa. The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has highlighted six innovative, community-led examples of nature-based solutions showcased during the 2025 Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP2025). These success stories demonstrate how restoring ecosystems can simultaneously address floods, droughts, heatwaves, and soil erosion while improving livelihoods and biodiversity.
In Mauritania, the revival of the traditional “village re-bushing” practice is regenerating vast stretches of degraded land. By blending indigenous methods with modern technology such as drones for seed dispersal and geospatial monitoring, communities are restoring thousands of hectares combating desertification, and improving food and water security.
Kampala, Uganda, has taken a green approach to flood prevention by stabilizing hillsides with native vegetation. This urban re-greening slows runoff, reduces soil erosion, and improves air quality offering a low-cost yet highly effective defense against urban flooding.
In Tanzania Arusha region, Maasai communities are restoring 15 acres of rangeland to strengthen pasture quality and food security. The project empowers women and youth through seed collection and sustainable land management, boosting both ecosystem and community resilience to drought.
Senegal’s Casamance region is tackling coastal erosion using locally made permeable barriers built from sticks and palm leaves. This eco-engineering approach has reclaimed about 40 meters of coastline and restored beaches, while newly planted coconut trees mark a lasting symbol of community stewardship.
In Somalia capital Mogadishu the rehabilitation of an old stormwater pond has transformed flood management in Boondheere District. The restored catchment area now protects nearly 24,000 residents from flooding, offering a practical model for urban water management in similar cities.
Meanwhile, South Africa southwestern Cape is combating drought by removing invasive alien trees that consume excessive water. Restoring native vegetation in mountain catchments has improved water flow and strengthened climate resilience.
Together these six projects underscore the message from GP2025: nature, when restored and managed wisely, is not only a shield against disasters but also a foundation for sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and human well-being.