About us
the green belt
Since 2016, the Mayor of the city of Ouagadougou has repositioned the enhancement of the green belt as a priority of his mandate, promoting an approach that reconciles environmental and social approaches, for endogenous economic development and improved food resilience.
The aim of the initiative
The aim of the initiative is to increase the resilience of the municipality of Ouagadougou to the effects of climate change by promoting the ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) approach in the rehabilitation of the green belt, and to help generate and disseminate a common understanding of the risks and effects of climate change.
In this context, this website aims to
- promote the essential role of the Green Belt in protecting the lives, social well-being and economic assets of the urban population of Ouagadougou in adapting to climate change;
- provide information on policies, initiatives and studies to ensure better coordination and foster possible synergies to protect and strengthen the Green Belt.
The site was created as part of the project “Evidence-based policy development for the promotion of EbA ( Environmental based Adaptation ” ) dans le développement de la Ceinture Verte de Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso” promoted by the NGO ACRA in partnership with the Ouagadougou City Council and the Institut de l’Environnement et de Recherches Agricoles du Burkina Faso (INERA).. The project is supported by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as part of the Global EbA Fund. The fund is financed by the International Climate Initiative (IKI), implemented by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV).
The benefits of the Green Belt
Environmental benefits
More green space The Green Belt introduces more greenery and vegetation, helping to combat urban heat islands and promote biodiversity.
Improved air quality The presence of trees and plants helps to filter and purify the air, reducing pollution and improving air quality.
Carbon sequestration Green Belt trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Social and recreational benefits
Public spaces The Green Belt provides residents with recreational areas, walking and cycling paths, as well as places for social gatherings and events.
Health and well-being Access to green spaces promotes physical and mental health by providing opportunities for exercise and relaxation.
Urban planning and aesthetics
Improved urban planning The Green Belt contributes to more thoughtful, sustainable urban planning by integrating green spaces into the structure of the city.
Aesthetic value It improves the overall aesthetics of the city, making it more visually appealing.
Cultural and historical significance
Preserving cultural heritage The Green Belt can include historical and cultural sites, helping to preserve the city’s heritage.
Agricultural opportunities
Urban agriculture The Green Belt offers space for urban agriculture, enabling residents to grow their own food and reduce their dependence on external food sources.
Food security Increased local food production boosts food security for the city’s population.
Economic opportunities
Job creation The development and maintenance of the Green Belt creates employment opportunities for local residents.
Tourism The Green Belt can attract tourists interested in exploring urban green spaces and sustainable urban development.
Community involvement
Community building The Green Belt can foster a sense of community, as residents participate in its development and maintenance.
Education and awareness-raising Environmental education and awareness-raising: Opportunities for environmental education and awareness-raising, involving local residents in sustainable practices.
Resilience to natural disasters
Buffer against natural disasters In the event of natural disasters such as droughts or sandstorms, the Green Belt can act as a buffer, offering the city a degree of protection.
Improved water management
Flood mitigation The Green Belt can help absorb excess rainwater and reduce the risk of flooding in the city.
Groundwater recharge Trees and plants in the Green Belt can help recharge the water table, contributing to a more sustainable water supply.
Climate resilience
Climate adaptation The Green Belt can serve as a climate adaptation strategy, helping the city to better withstand the effects of climate change, such as extreme temperatures and increased precipitation.
Improved quality of life
Improved quality of life Overall, the Green Belt contributes to a better quality of life for residents by providing a healthier, more sustainable urban environment.
Reducing urban development pressure
Limiting urban sprawl The Green Belt can help limit urban sprawl by reserving green spaces for future generations.
