Overview on Climate Resilience Efforts

Sierra Leone has developed several policies to address the impacts of climate change, including:

• Sierra Leone National Climate Change Strategy (2018–2030):
  This strategy provides a comprehensive framework for climate action, outlining national priorities, goals, and strategies for adaptation, mitigation, capacity building, and integrating climate change into development planning.
• National Adaptation Plan (NAP):
  Sierra Leone is actively engaged in the NAP process, which includes assessing climate vulnerabilities, identifying adaptation priorities, and integrating climate resilience measures into development plans across various sectors.
• Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs):
  The country has submitted its NDCs under the Paris Agreement, committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pursuing a low-carbon, climate-resilient development path.
• Renewable Energy Policy (2017):
  This policy promotes the development and use of renewable energy sources, aiming to expand access to clean, affordable energy while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
• Forest Policy (2014):
  The policy focuses on sustainable forest management and conservation to enhance carbon sequestration and protect biodiversity. It targets reductions in deforestation and forest degradation.
• Disaster Risk Reduction and Management:
  The National Disaster Management Act (2012) and Policy (2018) enhance disaster preparedness and response, including early warning systems and resilient infrastructure to mitigate climate-related risks.
• Coastal Zone Management Policy (2017):
  This policy addresses the impacts of sea-level rise and erosion in coastal areas. It promotes sustainable development, protective measures, and the integration of climate concerns into coastal management.

Gender Dimensions of Climate Change

Key gender-climate issues in Sierra Leone include:

• Vulnerability to natural disasters:
  Climate-related disasters such as floods, landslides, and droughts disproportionately affect women, who face barriers such as limited access to resources and evacuation information.
• Agriculture and food security:
  Women, who are central to small-scale farming, face challenges like unpredictable rainfall and pests. Limited access to extension services, inputs, and credit hinders their adaptive capacity and threatens food security.
• Water and sanitation:
  Women and girls often bear the responsibility of water collection. Changing rainfall patterns and reduced water access increase time burdens and health risks.
• Health risks:
  Climate change exacerbates health risks, particularly for women and children. These include waterborne and vector-borne diseases, malnutrition, and maternal health challenges in disaster-prone areas.
• Livelihoods and income disparities:
  Climate impacts on agriculture and natural resources threaten women’s livelihoods, particularly in rural areas, exacerbating economic disparities and gender inequality.

Project Focus