World University Service of Canada

Published purpose

The project aims to enhance the adoption of gender-responsive and inclusive Nature-based Solutions for climate change adaptation in the Guinean forests of West Africa. Implemented in Ghana, Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire, the project takes a systems approach to mitigate key climate challenges through interventions that plan for, pilot and scale Nature-based Solutions for climate adaptation that contribute to enhanced biodiversity and gender equality. Project activities include: (1) completing, analysing and sharing genetic and environmental DNA (eDNA) based biodiversity assessments; (2) selecting and distributing multipurpose tree species that support gender-responsive climate adaptation and biodiversity; and (3) improving capacity of local businesses, women’s organizations and cooperatives, to deploy more sustainable gender responsive livelihoods models implemented for Nature-based Solutions with biodiversity benefits. The consortium formed by World University Services Canada (WUSC) and the Centre d’étude et de coopération internationale (CECI) is responsible for the implementation of the project, with the collaboration of key partners such as ABANTU for Development, International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and ICRAF-CIFOR. The project benefits rural forest populations residing in target regions, particularly women. The project aims to reach 211,652 beneficiaries (of whom 50% women and 50% men). The project also targets more than 900 intermediaries, including actors and stakeholders at different scales, representatives of local village leadership, national women’s organizations, and business owners or leaders, policymakers and investors.