Map Of The Proposed Great Green Wall Of Africa

Map created by SevgartThe map above shows The Sahel region (brown), proposed Great Green Wall (green), and participating countries (white).

Here’s more about the project.

The Great Green Wall of Africa is an ambitious environmental and development initiative aimed at combating desertification, land degradation, and climate change across the Sahel region of Africa.

Launched in 2007 by the African Union, the goal is to restore and sustainably manage degraded lands while also improving food security, supporting local communities, and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Key Features of the Great Green Wall:

Geographical Scope: The project stretches across 11 African countries from the west to the east of the continent, from Senegal in the west to Djibouti in the east. The total length is planned to cover approximately 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles), and the width of the restored land is around 15 kilometers (9 miles).

Desertification Combat: The main aim is to halt the southward spread of the Sahara Desert into the Sahel, an area that is increasingly arid due to climate change and unsustainable land practices. This is achieved through reforestation and sustainable land management practices.

Reforestation and Restoration: Local trees, shrubs, and grasses are planted to regenerate the land, making it more resilient to drought and providing habitats for biodiversity. Species planted are native and adapted to arid environments, such as the Acacia tree, which helps fix nitrogen in the soil, promoting healthier ecosystems.

Benefits:

Environmental: Restored ecosystems can sequester carbon, contribute to cooling the climate, and improve biodiversity.
Economic: Provides jobs and income opportunities for millions of people living in some of the poorest areas of Africa. The initiative also promotes sustainable agriculture and land management.
Social: Reduces conflicts over dwindling natural resources and helps improve food and water security.

Progress:

“As of 2023, about 18 million hectares or 18% of the target had been restored. The estimated $33 billion to fund the project experienced unfulfilled promises, delays and poor coordination.”

Participating Countries (either benefiting directly and/or providing funding):