Transformative river adaptation in Drakenstein through nature-based solutions

The project's main goal is to strengthen the response to climate change in the municipality by connecting and improving existing riverine management initiatives. It will identify strategic locations for pilot measures based on a vulnerability analysis of the Berg River. The overarching objectives of the project are twofold: firstly, to enhance flood resilience and water retention in the Berg River catchment by rehabilitating riverbanks, riparian areas, and floodplains. Secondly, it aims to facilitate local partnerships for effective climate change risk management and flood mitigation, both within the local authority and in the wider community. 

This initiative in Drakenstein is part of the South Africa Adaptation Cluster centered around the City of Cape Town. Employing a systemic approach to flood management, the Drakenstein project contributes to addressing water and flood-related challenges in Cape Town. This is particularly crucial as the Berg River flows toward Cape Town and supplies water to one of the city's critical reservoirs, the Berg River Dam. Given that Cape Town's flood management capacities require strengthening, especially as it is a secondary city, the project will be executed in two phases.  

 In the initial phase, the CFF will assist the city in conducting a comprehensive climate change vulnerability assessment along the Berg River and its tributaries. In the subsequent phase, the project will identify and develop feasibility studies and business cases for up to four location-specific adaptation measures, with support from the CFF. 

 By enhancing flood resilience and the overall health of the riverine ecosystem, the project will have a significant impact on the communities residing along the riverbanks, particularly those in informal settlements or low-income areas. Importantly, since the project employs a system-wide approach, its effects are anticipated to extend beyond the project's immediate areas, benefiting communities downstream of Drakenstein as well.