Riparian-Based Nature-Based Solutions to Climate Change in Transfrontier Components of Botswana and Zimbabwe: Opportunities and Challenges

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Handbook of Nature-Based Solutions to Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change

Abstract

This study used case studies of the Runde and Cubango-Okavango River Basins in the Great Limpopo and Kavango TFCAs, respectively, to assess nature-based solutions to climate change impacts. The objectives of this chapter are to (i) analyze existing policy and institutional frameworks for incorporating nature-based solutions to climate change in the TFCAs; (ii) review literature findings (case studies, programs, projects) on nature-based solutions to climate change in the GLTFCA and KAZA; (iii) explore challenges and opportunities for mainstreaming nature-based solutions in the TFCAs. A systematic literature review using the sco** review methodology of published articles produced was done and analysis done thematically. The chapter relied on desktop reviews of official programs, grey literature produced for the TFCAs, technical reports, and other documents available online. Qualitative data analysis approaches were adopted to understand the legal and policy environment for promoting nature-based solutions. Findings indicate that there exists a plethora of international and regional strategies for promoting NbS win the context of TFCAs. For example, TFCAs can leverage on the provisions in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022), The Africa We Want 2063, and the revised SADC Programs or TFCAs to promote nature-based solutions. Findings also indicate that several stakeholders are involved in riparian-based activities to promote agro-based initiatives for climate resilience across the TFCAs. Local communities now rely on riparian-based initiatives such as horticulture and agro-ecology and nature-based tourism. However, challenges such as human-elephant conflict have also intensified leading to reduced crop-cultivation and production in TFCAs. Stakeholders in TFCAs need to consider monitoring the activities to ensure accountability, sustainable use, rehabilitation and restoration for maintenance of healthy riparian ecosystems.

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Correspondence to Olga Laiza Kupika .

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Kupika, O.L., Chanyandura, A., Chinyavada, J., Masunga, G. (2024). Riparian-Based Nature-Based Solutions to Climate Change in Transfrontier Components of Botswana and Zimbabwe: Opportunities and Challenges. In: Leal Filho, W., Nagy, G.J., Ayal, D. (eds) Handbook of Nature-Based Solutions to Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-98067-2_137-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-98067-2_137-1

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