Nature-based solutions for equitable climate resilience: Scoping a potential programme in Africa

Summary

This brief is a summary of a scoping exercise to inform the design of a potential research programme on nature‑based solutions for equitable climate resilience in Sub‑Saharan Africa. Supported by the Adaptation Research Alliance, the process combined a desk‑based literature review with multi‑actor workshops and community consultations across several African contexts.

The brief synthesises local knowledge, practitioner experience and academic evidence to identify priority research gaps and programme design considerations. It highlights four core themes around evidence generation, scalability, system‑wide valuation and community‑driven governance, underpinned by cross‑cutting commitments to equity and long‑term sustainability.

The brief concludes that future NbS research programmes should be co‑created with communities, prioritise marginalised groups, and strengthen the evidence base needed to support inclusive policy and investment decisions for climate resilience across the region.