Innovation in Climate Adaptation: Case Studies from Coastal Africa's Resilient Efforts 1. **Dakar, Senegal’s Coastal Protection:** The city of Dakar, Senegal, has implemented innovative strategies to

1. Case Study of The Groynes Project in Freetown, Sierra Leone: This project aimed at reducing coastal erosion and flood risk through the construction of Groynes (rigid hydraulic structures) which intercept water flow and limit the movement of sediment. Due to the positive implementation of this project, the shoreline in the Aberdeen/Murray Town areas of Freetown witnessed a significant reduction in coastal erosion, improving the livelihoods of locals, and promoting biodiversity (Bangura, 2018). Reference: Bangura, R. (2018). The Groynes project in Sierra Leone: A Success Story of Coastal Adaptation in Africa. Climate Action Network. 2. Case Study: Ecosystem-based Adaptation in Gambia: The Gambia’s coastal area is overwhelmingly impacted by sea-level rise, high temperatures and variable rainfall patterns. To address these effects, Gambia adopted the Ecosystem-based Adaptation project, the locational focus of which was Cape Point and Bintang Bolong. This project supported the creation and maintenance of Mangrove Plantations in order to stabilize the coastline, reduce the impact of wave action, and provide a habitat for various species. This had a positive impact on the livelihoods of coastal communities and the health of local ecosystems (UNEP, 2015). Reference: UNEP. (2015). Ecosystem-based Adaptation Project in Gambia: A Case Study. United Nations Environmental Programme. 3. Case Case study: Early warning systems in Mozambique: Mozambique’s coastline is notably susceptible to cyclones, storms, and associated flooding. As a response, the Mozambique National Institute for Disaster Management implemented an improved Early Warning System which ensured quick and effective communication of storm and flood threats to the citizenry. This led to an increased preparedness by the community, better responsiveness, and reduced loss of life and property (INGC, 2011). Reference: INGC. (2011). Improved Early Warning Systems: Climate Adaptation Strategies in Mozambique. National Institute for Disaster Management.