Furthering social equity in resource governance in Africa: Storytelling to shape transformative actions in Nature-Based Solution

In a concerted effort to further the consideration of equity in environmental governance, especially in relation to the so-called “Nature-based Solutions” to the contemporary environmental and climate challenges faced, a collaborative project brought together many African scholars, including Ida Djenontin, an Assistant Professor of Geography at Pennsylvania State University and a dedicated affiliate researcher at AESEDA (Alliance for Education, Science, Engineering, and Design with Africa). This collaborative work was conducted under the leadership of Petra Holden from African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI).

Nature-based solutions involve working with nature to address societal challenges while promoting human wellbeing and biodiversity. At its core, this collaborative effort seeks to” illuminate the factors that constrain or enable social equity in nature-based solutions”. One of the standout achievements of this endeavour is the creation of the anthology “Stories of Social (In)Equity in Nature-Based Solutions”. This compilation of narratives offers a poignant glimpse into the complex interplay between nature-based solutions, social equity, and local empowerment. Together, the stories contribute to “capture what can provide the space for action for embracing effective social equity during the design, planning and implementation of nature-based solutions”.

The stories presented in this anthology are more than mere narratives. They encapsulate the tangible impact of nature-based solutions on communities across Africa. From addressing misguided tree planting in Madagascar to confronting gender norms and conservancies in Namibia, each story unravels layers of challenges, as well as opportunities for positive transformation.

Story of Gabon by Dr. Djenontin

In Gabon, the narrative by Ida Djenontin exposes the pitfalls of well-intentioned but mismanaged forest concessions. It emphasizes the imperative of genuine collaboration between private sector entities, governments, and local communities to ensure equitable and sustainable land use practices.

Furthermore, the story from Madagascar illustrates the unintended consequences of tree planting initiatives. The imposition of exotic trees in grasslands not only disrupts the ecosystem but also alienates local communities who rely on these lands for their livelihoods. This narrative highlights the crucial need for context-specific, community-involved approaches in nature-based solutions.

“These narratives, while diverse in their contexts, converge on a common message: the need for inclusive, context-specific approaches in nature-based solutions.”

Similarly, the story from Namibia delves into the intricacies of gender dynamics within conservancies. It sheds light on the need to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by women in these contexts and underscores the importance of inclusive governance in achieving sustainable outcomes.

In South Africa, the story of tree clearing, and job sustainability paints a vivid picture of the realities faced by individuals on the ground. It emphasizes the necessity of providing sustainable, reliable income-generating opportunities to uplift communities while simultaneously addressing environmental challenges.

They serve as a clarion call for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to reevaluate their strategies, placing communities at the center of decision-making processes.

The outcomes from these stories extend beyond academic discourse. They are catalysts for tangible change, driving collaborative efforts towards more effective, inclusive, and locally appropriate approaches in sustainable development.