OSS and Its Partners Strengthen Coordination to Accelerate the Implementation of the ADSWAC and CREW Projects

Luanda, Angola - 22 June - 2 July 2026 

As part of its continued support to climate change adaptation initiatives in Angola, the Sahara and Sahel Observatory conducted a supervision mission in Angola from 22 June to 2 July 2026, focusing on the ADSWAC and CREW Angola projects. The mission aimed to strengthen coordination among partners and accelerate project implementation. For the OSS, the priority remains to make climate action more operational, better coordinated, and more strongly oriented towards concrete results on the ground. 

Funded by the Adaptation Fund (AF), the ADSWAC project seeks to strengthen the resilience of drought-affected communities in south-western Africa. The CREW Angola project, supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), focuses on empowering women’s groups in Cunene Province by promoting income-generating activities and strengthening their resilience to the impacts of climate change.

The mission brought together the OSS, ADPP (Ajuda de Desenvolvimento de Povo para Povo), the executing entity for both projects, and the principal national partner institutions. It was led by Ms. Khaoula JAOUI, Technical Programmes Coordinator, Director of the Climate Department and Head of Mission. The OSS delegation also included Mr. Aziz BELHAMRA, Head of the Project Implementation Division, Mr. Haithem REJEB, Project Manager, Mr. Zied SEDIRI, Financial Officer, and Ms. Safa ARFAOUI, Technical Assistant.

The discussions provided an opportunity to review implementation progress, identify challenges, assess partners' support needs, and establish a common roadmap to accelerate the implementation of both projects.

For the ADSWAC project, the working sessions focused primarily on community awareness, capacity development, climate-resilient production systems, sustainable water resources management, and the implementation of adaptation measures aimed at strengthening food security in the provinces of Cuando and Cubango. Particular attention was given to the development of water solutions for productive activities, a priority component that is highly anticipated by beneficiary communities.

Meetings with representatives of Angola's Ministry of Environment and the Office for the Administration of the Cunene, Cubango and Cuvelai River Basins (GABHIC) made it possible to validate the main technical orientations and agree on an operational timetable to accelerate the implementation of this key component.

The discussions also addressed the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture, support to farmers and livestock keepers, and the promotion of income-generating activities, with the participation of representatives of the relevant sectoral ministries and the Institute for the Development of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture (IPA).

Regarding the CREW Angola project, currently in its inception phase, the mission supported the newly established project coordination team in taking ownership of the project, aligning the understanding of its transformative gender approach, and finalizing the operational arrangements required for the effective launch of field activities.

Beyond the technical follow-up of the two projects, the mission reflects the shared commitment of the OSS and its partners to strengthening institutional coordination, consolidating project implementation, and ensuring that climate finance serves as a concrete lever for enhancing the resilience of communities in the provinces of Cuando, Cubango, and Cunene.