The Scaling Urban Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Sub-Saharan Africa (SUNCASA)

The Scaling Urban Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Adaptation in Sub-Saharan Africa (SUNCASA) project aims to reduce flood risks and enhance resilience for approximately 2.2 million people in Dire Dawa (Ethiopia), Kigali (Rwanda), and Johannesburg (South Africa). Jointly managed by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and the World Resources Institute (WRI), the project will involve local partners in Kigali, including the City of Kigali, Rwanda Young Water Professional, ARCOS, and Avega Agahozo. It is funded by Global Affairs Canada with a budget of CAD 29 million until 2026.

In Kigali, SUNCASA will restore six critical upstream micro-catchments of the lower Nyabarongo River watershed to reduce downstream flood and landslide risks. The project will focus on:

• Developing and implementing gender-responsive nature-based solutions (NbS) for river catchment restoration to reduce flood risk and ensure water security.
• Promoting gender equality and social inclusion by removing barriers for women and underrepresented groups in climate adaptation processes.
• Building resilient livelihoods, protecting biodiversity, creating green jobs, and improving community well-being through green public spaces.

The overall objective is to enhance urban community resilience to climate change impacts while promoting participation from women and underrepresented groups. Indirect benefits are expected for an additional 7 million residents in these cities.