Benin’s coastline is eroding at some of the highest rates in the world, putting ecosystems, livelihoods, and infrastructure at risk. This publication examines a proposed WACA ResIP sub-project at the Bouche du Roy, designed to reduce flooding and control erosion through engineered and nature-based solutions. It focuses on strengthening the project’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment to better align with World Bank biodiversity standards and protect critical natural habitats.

Benin is a lower-middle-income country in West Africa bordered by Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, and Togo. Its economy is highly dependent on the informal reexport and transit trade with Nigeria, as well as the export of cotton. The country comprises 12 regional departements and runs a unitary presidential republic system with a parliament.

The overall objective of the West African Coastal Management Program is to reduce coastal risks to the coasts of Mauritania, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Togo and Benin, taking into account the potential effects of climate change.