2.6 Risk of deforestation from drought and desertification Given the arid conditions of the Sahel, the region is susceptible to drought and desertification caused by extreme temperatures, which can lead to wildfires and soil erosion. Adapting to changing climatic conditions is necessary for the resilience of GGW efforts. Risk mitigation: Inclusive forest-governance models improve sustainable forest management by defining and enforcing the modalities of access and control of forest resources.46 Through creating sustainable land-use practices, promoting behavioural change and implementing environmental safeguards such as forest guards, firebreaks and artificial ponds, project implementors can reduce the risks, occurrences and spread of incidences like wildfires. Restoring soil quality through forests also improves water retention and reduces the risk of run-off and flooding in areas affected by desertification.47 Ensuring community ownership and adaptation through strong local governance and direct livelihood benefitsBOX 6 One of the critical elements in the longevity of quality reforestation and restoration projects is the integration of capacity building and knowledge exchange efforts to promote sustainable land management, livelihoods and governance development. During the EU-funded Regreening Africa programme (2017- 2023), implementing partners worked with communities to develop governance capacity through village land commissions, rural resource centres and capacity building for youth. The programme was also careful to align its biophysical characteristics (e.g. planting the right tree in the right place at the right time, along with managed natural regeneration) with a clear focus on improving livelihoods by incorporating species that contribute to food security and income generation. This approach helped strengthen the links between restoration and local benefits for communities. Meanwhile, the selection of quality and improved plants and seeds ensured that value chain development did not compromise regeneration of the perennial species that delivered the restoration and sequestration benefits. The Regreening Africa programme supported 607,088 households to undertake restoration activities on 954,440 hectares across eight countries, including Ethiopia, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Burkina Faso. Source: World Agroforestry.48 Image credit: Tree Aid The Untapped Potential of Great Green Wall Voluntary Carbon Market Projects 19

The Untapped Potential of Great Green Wall Voluntary Carbon Market Projects 2024