Towards a low-carbon climate-resilient future: developing The Gambia’s 2050 climate vision

In this case study, the authors explore lessons from the process undertaken by The Gambia to develop its 2050 Climate Vision, which may aid other countries on their journey.  The authors look at how the country is preparing to elaborate a 'long-term low greenhouse gas development strategy' in response to the Paris Agreement’s invitation. Addressing the challenges of our changing climate is both a sprint and a marathon — it demands a two-pronged approach of urgent short-term actions combined with innovative planning to manage future risk. Building on its strong climate policy landscape and having already set some of the most ambitious goals of any least developed country, in 2021 The Gambia has published its 2050 Climate Vision for low-carbon and climate-resilient development. 

Based on the four strategic priority areas identified in the Climate Vision, The Gambia will need to detail key national targets and milestones. Given the country’s already relatively low contribution to global emissions but high levels of exposure to climate variability, actions to enhance adaptive capacity, strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability will be just as important as low- emissions economic growth.