Guinea-Bissau, a nation rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, faces pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges, particularly in its coastal zones. With rising climate risks, rapid urbanization, and governance fragmentation, a strategic and integrated approach is essential for sustainable coastal management. This is where the “Development of a new Integrated Planning and Management Framework for Coastal Zones in Guinea-Bissau (ICZM)” consultancy steps in. But what exactly does it entail, and why is it crucial for Guinea-Bissau’s future?
The Consultancy and Mission in Bissau
Under the UNDP/GEF Project “Strengthening the Resilience of Vulnerable Coastal Areas and Communities to Climate Change in Guinea-Bissau” (2019–2024), the ICZM consultancy is tasked with developing a new governance framework for the country’s coastal zones.
This mission, held between February 10-21, 2025, was crucial for shaping an institutional and regulatory framework that integrates climate-sensitive planning, environmental sustainability, and economic development.
Key Objectives of the Consultancy:
- Establish a National Strategy and Management Plan for ICZM.
- Develop an integrated regulatory and institutional framework for coastal governance.
- Engage stakeholders through consultations and participatory planning.
- Ensure climate resilience in coastal urbanization and land-use planning.
Activities in Bissau:
- Participation in the UN-Habitat International Symposium (February 11-12, 2025): Held at Hala Hotel.
- Organization of the Inception Workshop (February 13, 2025): Hosted at IBAP headquarters, this workshop serves as a launchpad for the consultancy’s work.
- Stakeholder Consultations: Engaging with ministries, local governments, and civil society to ensure inclusivity in planning.
Meet the Team
The ICZM consultancy is led by a team of experts with diverse backgrounds in urban planning, environmental management, and governance:
- Daniel Bazzucchi (Team Leader);
- Giacomo Cozzolino;
- Elio Trusiani (Camerino University);
- Giorgio Caprari (Camerino University);
- Morto Fandé;
- Valerio De Luca.
Daniel Bazzucchi, Elio Trusiani, and Giorgio Caprari were directly involved in the mission in Bissau, contributing their expertise to coastal governance and climate resilience strategies.
Why This Matters
Guinea-Bissau’s coastal regions are not just ecological hotspots but also vital to the country’s economic and social fabric. However, uncontrolled urbanization, environmental degradation, and land conflicts have threatened their sustainability. Without a comprehensive coastal management framework, these issues could escalate, leading to irreversible damage.
The ICZM consultancy aims to bridge gaps between governance, environmental protection, and socio-economic development. By fostering collaboration across sectors, the mission will lay the groundwork for a sustainable and resilient future.