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South Africa's Eco-DRR Project: a R700 million initiative to combat Climate Change
The recent deaths in the Eastern Cape floods is exactly what this innovative initiative hopes to avoid. It is expected to directly benefit approximately 366,000 people with a further reach of more than 5.1 million South Africans, particularly those residing in areas prone to devastating floods, prolonged droughts, and rampant wildfires.
South Africa is poised to make significant strides in combating climate change, thanks to a landmark grant of R700 million (USD 40.1 million) from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This financial boost will facilitate the launch of the 'Scaling up ecosystem-based approaches to managing climate intensified disaster risks in vulnerable regions of South Africa' project, better known as the Eco-DRR project.
Approved by the GCF Board during its recent meeting in Papua New Guinea on 1 July 2025, the Eco-DRR project is set to span eight years with an extensive 20-year impact projected on local communities. This innovative initiative is expected to directly benefit approximately 366,000 individuals, with a further reach of more than 5.1 million South Africans, particularly those residing in areas prone to devastating floods, prolonged droughts, and rampant wildfires.
'The increasing frequency of floods, droughts, and wildfires poses a serious threat to South Africa's communities, especially those in rural and peri-urban areas,' said Dion George, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. He added that this investment will bolster ecological infrastructure, mitigate disaster risks, and enhance adaptive capacities where they are most crucial.
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) will spearhead the execution of the Eco-DRR project, collaborating with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), and four climate-vulnerable District Municipalities across the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West provinces. Insights derived from the project are anticipated to inform broader climate change adaptation responses throughout the nation.
This investment seeks to deliver far-reaching advantages, particularly to communities facing the harsh realities of climate change impacts. By focusing on the restoration and protection of vital ecosystems, such as wetlands, forests, and catchments, the project will substantially reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events, enhance water security, and promote sustainable livelihoods anchored in nature.
Another critical aspect of the Eco-DRR project is its commitment to empowering local governments and communities through training and resources necessary for effective disaster preparedness and climate adaptation. 'The role of biodiversity in South Africa's response to climate change is at the heart of this project," remarked Shonisani Munzhedzi, CEO of SANBI. 'Healthy ecosystems act as natural buffers against climate extremes, protecting lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods. This project marks a significant advancement in climate adaptation financing for South Africa.'
SANBI's accreditation as a Direct Access Entity of the Green Climate Fund since 2016 puts the institute in a strategic position to harness global climate finance effectively. This facilitates an alignment of resources with local priorities and needs, thereby strengthening institutional capabilities and ensuring the climate adaptation agenda is driven by South Africans, for South Africans.
The Eco-DRR project is part of SANBI's broader climate adaptation portfolio and aligns directly with the GCF's Targeted Results for 2024-2027, focusing on ecosystems and food systems. This initiative promotes integrated, locally driven, and gender-responsive development, paving the way for a resilient, climate-adaptive future for South Africa. Furthermore, its implementation supports the Climate Change Act, addressing the urgent need for action in the face of escalating climate challenges.
