The Great Green Wall (GGW), Africa’s ambitious project to restore degraded land across the Sahel region, is struggling with severe financial shortages, putting its 2030 targets at risk. Launched by the African Union in 2007, the initiative aims to rehabilitate 100 million hectares of land and create 10 million green jobs across 11 countries. However, with only 18 million hectares restored so far—just 18% of its goal—stakeholders warn that fragmented funding and delayed disbursements are hampering progress.
Funding Shortfalls Threaten Progress
Originally envisioned as a barrier against desertification, the GGW has expanded into a broader effort to support agriculture, pastoralism, and forest restoration. Yet, as traditional international donors reduce contributions, the project faces an urgent need for alternative financing.
At the 2021 One Planet Summit in France, world leaders pledged $19 billion to support the initiative. However, by May 2025, only $2.5 billion had been disbursed—a stark shortfall that has left project leaders scrambling for solutions.
Calls for Diversified Funding
Facing dwindling donor support, stakeholders are pushing for innovative financing mechanisms, including carbon markets and private sector investments.
“Due to the challenges in financing, we are diversifying the sources,” said a representative involved in the initiative. “We are making a plea at the highest level—ministers of the environment, prime ministers, and even presidencies—to secure the necessary support.”
Community-Led Approach Key to Success
Beyond environmental benefits, the GGW is seen as a tool for reducing conflict risks by fostering economic opportunities in vulnerable regions. Decisions on land restoration are made through community-led consultations, ensuring local buy-in for projects such as communal gardens and integrated farms.
“We have a greater chance of mitigating the risks of conflict because rehabilitation and restoration are based on community needs,” the representative emphasized.
Race Against Time
With the 2030 deadline approaching, questions remain over whether the Great Green Wall can overcome its financial hurdles. As African leaders and international partners reassess their commitments, the future of one of the continent’s most ambitious environmental projects hangs in the balance.
For now, the call is clear: without urgent action and diversified funding, the vision of a greener, more resilient Sahel may remain out of reach.
