Full Breakdown
World Bank Approves $240 Million for West Africa Coastal Protection and Blue Economy Jobs
3/24/2026, 5:49:18 PM
Overview of the Initiative
The World Bank Group has approved a funding package of $240 million to launch the first phase of the West Africa Coastal Areas Blue Economy and Resilience Programme (WACA+). This initiative aims to address the pressing challenges of coastal erosion, flooding, and environmental degradation exacerbated by climate change in West Africa. The funding includes $207 million from the International Development Association, $5 million from the PROBLUE trust fund, and $28 million in private capital, targeting the coastal regions of Benin and Mauritania.
Objectives and Expected Outcomes
WACA+ is designed to protect vulnerable coastlines, strengthen blue-economy value chains, and create approximately 13,000 new jobs for coastal communities by 2031. The programme will stabilize critical areas such as the Bouche du Roy estuary and the Mono River mouth in Benin, and reinforce the dune system protecting Nouakchott, Mauritania. Additionally, it will restore up to 3,000 hectares of mangroves and coastal wetlands, which are essential for biodiversity and serve as natural flood barriers.
According to Chakib Jenane, World Bank Regional Director, “West Africa’s coastal communities are on the frontlines of climate change,” emphasizing the need for integrated responses to these challenges. The initiative is expected to benefit over 530,000 people by reducing their exposure to coastal hazards.
Economic Development and Job Creation
Beyond environmental restoration, WACA+ aims to stimulate private investment and job creation in sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, ecotourism, and maritime services. The programme will provide technical assistance, training, and financing tools for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). By engaging local businesses, particularly those led by women and youth, WACA+ seeks to enhance economic resilience in coastal communities.
Marina Wes, the World Bank acting Director for Regional Programs, stated, “No country can tackle coastal erosion or build a thriving blue economy alone,” highlighting the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared coastal challenges.
Building on Previous Efforts
WACA+ builds on the earlier West Africa Coastal Areas Management Programme, which funded seawalls, beach nourishment, and mangrove restoration projects. The new programme aims to scale these efforts while placing a stronger emphasis on economic development through the blue economy.
Future Prospects
As WACA+ progresses, it is expected to extend support to additional West African countries, ultimately protecting over 1.3 million hectares of seascapes and enhancing resilience for more than 850,000 people. Future phases will continue to focus on job creation, with projections of supporting over 50,000 jobs across the region.
Conclusion
The WACA+ initiative represents a significant investment in the future of West Africa's coastal communities, addressing both environmental and economic challenges. By fostering regional collaboration and sustainable development, the programme aims to safeguard vital coastal ecosystems and improve livelihoods for millions.
