The World Bank Group has approved the launch of the first phase of the WACA+ program, with a total financing of $240 million, aimed at strengthening coastal resilience and developing the blue economy in West Africa.

Initially implemented in Benin and Mauritania, the program addresses the interconnected challenges of coastal erosion, flooding, and economic development in coastal areas.

Delivering tangible impacts for coastal communities

530,000 people protected from coastal risks (erosion and flooding)

13,000 jobs created in blue economy sectors (fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, logistics, ecosystem restoration)

The program will also improve livelihoods for local communities, with a strong focus on women and youth, who are at the center of the interventions.

Integrated investments for resilience and growth

WACA+ combines key structural interventions:

• Protection of critical infrastructure and economic zones
• Restoration of coastal ecosystems, including up to 3,000 hectares of mangroves and wetlands
• Strengthening national capacities in coastal management
• Direct support to the private sector (SMEs, cooperatives, local entrepreneurs)

Innovative mechanisms such as blended finance and credit guarantees will help mobilize additional private investment in blue economy value chains.

A regional approach to transboundary challenges

Given that coastal dynamics transcend national borders, WACA+ promotes regional cooperation by harmonizing policies and facilitating knowledge sharing among countries.

The program builds on the achievements of WACA, with an enhanced ambition: to sustainably protect coastlines while driving economic growth and job creation across the region.


Read the full World Bank press release → Safeguarding Coasts, Driving Jobs: WACA+ to Protect 530,000 People and Catalyze 13,000 Blue Economy Jobs