U.S. Embassy Djibouti Reforestation Program

Djibouti is a highly urbanized country with more than 70 percent of the population living in the capital city, Djibouti City. In the capital, the level of sunshine and temperatures remain well above the national average. The effects of climate change coupled with rapid urbanization have contributed to the destruction of vegetation cover in Djibouti City. Reforestation has been proven to reduce the mean temperature in cities by 0.4°C.

Climate change, rapid urbanization, deforestation, and aging and inadequate drainage infrastructure has increased the risk of severe flooding when it does rain. The variability and intensity of rainfall, combined with urbanization, increase the risk of flooding. In April 2024, severe flooding from a few hours of rain trapped communities and destroyed roads and bridges in the city. The Mayor of Djibouti has set a Green City vision. Part of this effort is to increase reforestation, climate smart practices, and reduce urban heat. This project will support sustainable reforestation efforts in Djibouti City.

Priority Program Areas: Funding will support proposals that directly respond to extreme heat and climate response efforts in Djibouti City. As the effects of climate change push rural communities to the city, the city needs to adapt and mitigate the effects of extreme heat. This project will advance broader climate change mitigation efforts being led by the Government of Djibouti. The project’s key objectives are to:

1. Provide training on sustainable landscaping and tree placement to mitigate urban flooding and extreme heat. 
2. Increase reforestation in Djibouti City through planting trees.

Participants and Audiences: Embassy Djibouti will consider the full range and diversity of Djibouti and U.S. organizations.

Authorizing legislation, type and year of funding: The source of funding is FY 2023 Economic Support Funds (ESF) to support small-scale grants for climate adaptation and sustainable landscapes in host countries.