Book RCAA Conference Hall

  +233 020 206 1234  62/3 Ward D Amamomo Close Palladium

Coastal Civil Society Organizations Forum: Insights from a Transformative Study Tour

Empowering Coastal Protection Across West Africa

From November 25th to 30th, 2024, the Coastal Civil Society Organizations Forum (CCF) embarked on an inspiring five-day study tour to Togo and Benin. This transformative trip brought together key delegates, including Bismark Sedinam Wordui from the Street Children Empowerment Foundation (SCEF), alongside representatives from the Nurture Nature Foundation, D Rose Foundation, Sea2see Foundation, and Fill The Gap.

This initiative aimed to explore impactful coastal resilience efforts under the West Africa Coastal Areas Resilience Project (WACA ResIP). Supported by the World Bank, WACA is dedicated to managing and restoring critical ecological, social, and economic assets of coastal regions, vital for biodiversity, tourism, and local economies.

A Journey of Discovery and Collaboration

Three Transformative Days in Togo

The journey began in Lomé, Togo, where delegates were introduced to WACA Togo’s community-driven approach at the Agbajrafo project site. Collaboration with local leaders and communities was at the heart of sustainable coastal protection efforts. Highlights included:

Groin construction and mangrove plantations: Strengthening coastal defenses while restoring biodiversity.

Livelihood-support programs: Empowering communities through sustainable economic opportunities.

At Aneho Municipal Assembly and Folijo Mangrove Farm, the delegation observed the innovative use of mangrove and coconut plantations, which serve as biodiversity sanctuaries and sources of livelihood. Horizontal sand revetments and recreational spaces showcased a holistic approach to coastal restoration.

Exploring Innovations in Benin

Crossing into Benin, the delegation visited impactful sites in Grand Popo and Commune de Lokossa. Key initiatives included:

  • Sustainable coconut plantations: A vital buffer for shorelines and biodiversity.
  • Empowering women in agriculture: Over 760 women gained training and access to machinery, generating income through palm kernel oil and other local products.

These projects demonstrated the integration of coastal protection and community empowerment, leaving delegates inspired to apply these lessons in their home countries.

 

Key Takeaways from the Study Tour

  • Holistic Solutions for Coastal Resilience: Combining environmental conservation with socioeconomic development addresses both immediate and long-term community needs.
  • Community-Led Initiatives: Empowering local stakeholders ensures sustainability and nurtures ownership of projects.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Observing successful cross-border collaborations emphasized the importance of shared expertise for regional progress.
  • Sustainable Livelihoods: Practical skills and income-generating opportunities are essential for fostering resilience in vulnerable communities.

Applying Lessons to SCEF’s Advocacy

As SCEF continues its advocacy for clean water and sanitation under SDG Goal 6, the lessons learned from the WACA project are guiding the organization’s ongoing Eco-Village Initiative and Accra Dances Movement. These initiatives integrate environmental sustainability with community empowerment.

Insights for the Eco-Village Initiative:

Holistic Solutions: Just as WACA combines conservation and socioeconomic development, SCEF focuses on eco-friendly infrastructure to address water scarcity while empowering families with resources and knowledge.

Community-Led Projects: Strong local leadership and active participation ensure the sustainability of water conservation and sanitation efforts.

Sustainable Livelihoods: Expanding livelihood programs within the Eco-Village will enable residents to adopt sustainable practices and improve their economic situation.

Enhancing the Accra Dances Movement

Led by Bismark Sedinam Wordui, this initiative uses dance as a platform for advocacy, raising awareness about water and sanitation challenges in underserved communities. Observations from WACA’s projects will enhance this art-driven approach, connecting local efforts to global conversations on SDG Goal 6.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening SCEF’s Advocacy

The insights from this study tour will refine SCEF’s strategies for clean water and sanitation advocacy. These lessons will drive the Eco-Village Initiative and Accra Dances Movement, crucial components of sustainable development in Ghana.

Through continued learning and adaptation of best practices, SCEF remains committed to addressing water crises in vulnerable communities and promoting environmental stewardship.

 

Donate