Africa's Great Green Wall Project Faces Implementation Challenges After 18 Years

Implementation In southern Djibouti, a plot once designated for farming under the project now lies barren. The site contains broken irrigation pipes, a derelict weather station, and dry taps. No greenery is visible within the fenced area.

The Djibouti government dug a borehole for underground water access. Funds installed a solar pump to fill concrete tanks, and built a dam on a small stream. The system initially supported farming of tomatoes, legumes, and fruits by locals.

A local stated that the farm provided food security for the family and community. Villagers sold surplus produce for income. However, within a few years, drought caused the dam to leak, the solar pump failed, and increased population strained the water supply.

The borehole's water eventually depleted, leaving only weekly government water truck deliveries for livestock.

Crops withered, and the farm ceased operations. NPR reported that similar issues of maintenance failures and insufficient local involvement have affected other parts of the project. The initiative's goals include supporting farmers and creating employment in arid areas.

Affected populations, such as pastoralists in the Sahel, face ongoing challenges from desertification, which impacts agriculture and livelihoods. Future efforts may involve addressing funding transparency and community participation to sustain progress. Monitoring by national agencies continues, with international partners providing ongoing support.

The project's long-term success depends on resolving technical and logistical hurdles across the 11 countries.