BANGUI, December 4, 2024 - The World Bank has released a report urging the Central African Republic (CAR) to enhance resilience against climate change and reduce poverty. According to the report, poverty could rise by 3% in urban areas and 6% in rural regions by 2050 without intervention.
The CAR's Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) emphasizes economic diversification to lessen reliance on agriculture and forestry, sectors susceptible to climate impacts. Without reform, these disruptions might result in GDP losses of up to 8% by mid-century.
“The Central African Republic has the opportunity to reduce the losses from climate change by adopting a bold policy focused on building human capital, supporting displaced populations, and revitalizing undiversified local economies,” stated Guido Rurangwa, World Bank Resident Representative in CAR. He added that immediate action is necessary for investment towards a resilient future. "Climate adaptation and resilience are key to achieving development goals in CAR, and this report provides a comprehensive path.”
The report outlines four priorities for strengthening resilience: improving infrastructure against natural disasters; fostering public-private partnerships for renewable energy; promoting climate education; and reforming natural resource management.
“In CAR, climate resilience means supporting communities to manage the complex intersections between climate, fragility, and development," said Nabil Chaherli, lead author of the report. "Reducing the adverse effects of these intersections requires a profound structural transformation supported by economic policy reforms and increased public and private investment.” The success of these initiatives depends on collaboration among government entities, private sector players, civil society groups, and international partners.