OOS 60-1 - Understanding Nature-Based Solutions in the Context of African Cities

Mainstreaming nature-based solutions (NbS) into policy, planning and decision making has gained global traction as an approach to sustainability. Regions and countries are increasingly showcasing this work, especially given increasing evidence of the effectiveness of healthy ecosystems and NbS in enhancing adaptive capacity and resilience while responding effectively to developmental challenges related to water security, poverty and climate change related risks. The multifunctionality and ambiguity of NbS have also attracted much scrutiny, sparking both support and critique, globally. For generations, Africa has been actively involved in these approaches, through conservation, agricultural practices to tree planting as a cooling mechanism, with multiple countries and communities reaping benefits from the continued integration of nature into solving socio-environmental challenges. The benefits of NBS are especially relevant given the socio-economic dynamics and inequality prominent within the African continent. Despite its importance in social and development issues, plus a vibrant Nbs practice and knowledge base in Africa, the global scholarly narrative on NbS has not been well supported with evidence from African cases. Here we explore this gap and consider Africa's scholarly contribution and role in the NbS debate globally. The paper also proposes requirements to strengthen future African NbS scholarship, one that must support African NbS policy and practice as well as strengthen its position in the global NbS dialogue.