The Quest for Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation into Regional Planning of Least Developed Countries: Strategy Implications for Regions in Ethiopia


A desk study was conducted during the period 2012/2013 on the quest for Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation into Regional Planning of Least Developed Countries. Numerous factors determine vulnerability to climate change in least developed countries (LDCs), including geographical location, gender, age, political affiliation, livelihood, access to resources and wealth (entitlements). Global circulation models predict a 1.7-2.1ºC rise in Ethiopia's mean temperature by 2050. The general objective of the study is to assess the quest for mainstreaming climate change adaptation into regional planning of least developed countries (LDCs) and draw strategy implications for regions in Ethiopia. Comprehensive literature review on climate change vulnerabilities and adaptation measures in least developed countries was conducted in the course of writing this paper. The findings of the study reveal that national adaptation programme of action (NAPAs) in least developed countries were being gender-blind and failed to be properly implemented. Least developed countries should therefore do more to prepare for ongoing and future climate changes focusing on actions that are no-regrets, multi-sectoral and multi-level, and that improve the management of current climate variability. Strengthening capacities to use climate information, enabling locally appropriate responses, screening climate risks, assessing risks and adaptation options, starting with existing policies and plans, broadening constituencies beyond environment agencies, managing strategy conflicts, learning from projects and recognising their limitations, monitoring and learning are the foreseen strategic actions by regions in Ethiopia for effective mainstreaming of climate change adaptation into regional development planning in the years to come.

Keywords: Adaptation, Climate Change, Ethiopia, Least Developed Countries, Mainstreaming, Vulnerability