From Monday, July 14 to Friday, July 18, 2025, staff from the Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA) took part in a five-day training aimed at strengthening their capacity to support climate-resilient planning at the local level. 

Organized in partnership with BRAC International and the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), the training introduced participants to the Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) approach, an innovative method that places communities at the center of identifying and addressing the impacts of climate change.

The sessions equipped LODA staff with practical tools to help local governments integrate climate adaptation into their planning processes. This includes identifying climate risks, prioritizing adaptation projects, and ensuring inclusive participation of local stakeholders. With communities experiencing growing climate threats such as floods, landslides, and droughts, the training comes at a crucial time for building resilience at the grassroots level.

During the training, participants conducted a field visit to Shyira Sector in Nyabihu District, where they observed firsthand the progress made through LLA-supported interventions. The visit also served as an opportunity to meet and engage with locally lead adaptation committee members who are actively involved in adaptation planning and implementation.

LLA is designed to ensure that local populations benefit directly from climate adaptation efforts. These benefits include improved infrastructure, enhanced agricultural practices, sustainable livelihoods, and increased preparedness for climate shocks. When communities lead the process, adaptation solutions are more likely to be effective, relevant, and long-lasting.

A key component of the approach is the formation of Locally Led Adaptation Committees from the cell to district levels. These committees are responsible for guiding, monitoring, and advising on adaptation plans. Their work helps ensure that adaptation is inclusive, locally appropriate, and aligned with community priorities.