Climate change in East Africa has far-reaching effects that manifest both in large-scale disruptions and in smaller, daily inconveniences that often go unnoticed. Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) emphasises the importance of local people having control over the adaptation process, leveraging their knowledge and experiences to manage climate risks in ways that are embedded in their local context. This policy brief takes a deep dive into LLA actions in East Africa focussing on their significance, showcasing successful examples in different cities across East Africa and highlighting the challenges faced. 

The LEARN Cross-city Policy Dialogue webinar, “Scaling up Local Actions Shaping Climate Trajectories in East African Cities,” held in July 2024, gathered climate practitioners from urban areas across East Africa (Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Kenya) to share their experiences in climate adaptation. The discussions centred around presentations and evaluations of LLA initiatives in East Africa and examined the policy and practice environment surrounding these efforts.