By prioritizing human capital and mobilizing rural and urban communities, CAR can turn challenges into opportunities. Credit: Abdoulaye Ndao-Layepro / World Bank
The Central African Republic (CAR) faces numerous challenges: the increasing impacts of climate change, fragility, and persistent underdevelopment. With about 70% of the population living below the poverty line and millions affected by recurring floods or droughts, the stakes are high. However, by placing people at the heart of climate solutions, CAR can not only overcome these challenges but also pave the way to a greener, more inclusive, and resilient economy.
Rural or Urban: A Shared Vulnerability
In rural areas, where agriculture supports over 70% of Central Africans, unpredictable rainfall and prolonged droughts affect crops and push vulnerable families into poverty. In urban environments such as Bangui and Berberati, flooding regularly threatens 33% of built-up areas in Bangui and 54% in Birao, disrupting infrastructure and essential services.
These common challenges, whether urban or rural, highlight the urgent need for an integrated approach to strengthen climate resilience across the country.
Human-Centered Solutions
The Climate and Development Report (CCDR) for CAR proposes concrete solutions to address these challenges:
- Strengthen resilient infrastructure: Modernize drainage systems and roads to protect housing and essential services.
- Promote climate-smart agriculture: Develop agroforestry, encourage drought-resistant crops, and invest in modern irrigation techniques.
- Invest in human capital: Train youth, include climate adaptation in school curricula, and prepare local leaders to manage climate risks.
- Engage communities: For example, in Bangui, citizens play a key role in urban planning to enhance resilience.
Strengthening Governance and Mobilizing International Support
The success of these initiatives relies on effective governance and international mobilization. The CCDR has already informed the National Development Plan (2024-2028) with a focus on climate and the environment. However, moving from recommendations to practice requires significant financial resources and collective engagement from development partners.
A Sustainable and Inclusive Future for All
By prioritizing human capital and mobilizing both rural and urban communities, CAR can turn its challenges into opportunities. The CCDR report presents a clear roadmap to align national priorities with global climate goals and build a more inclusive and resilient future.
The time to act is now!
-----------
Join the Conversation