Barriers to Mainstreaming Nature-Based Solutions into Local Development Plans in Africa: A Systematic Review

Author: Yakubu Alhassan Zakaria

Field of Study: Community Research and Action

Faculty Mentors: Amber Simpson

Easel: 53

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: The research used the PRISMA method to examine the barriers to mainstreaming nature-based solutions into local development planning across Africa. It examined 27 peer-reviewed articles using the PRISMA guidelines. The analysis reveals institutional silos, the dominance of grey infrastructure norms, limited technical capacity and financing, land constraints, and low public awareness as barriers to NbS mainstreaming into local development planning. In conclusion, NbS are recognized as practical and cost-effective pathways to enhance climate resilience to achieving sustainable development goals in Africa but mainstreaming them into large-scale development planning and practice need to be accompanied by institutional change, capacity building, and innovative financing.