Southern Niger Connectivity and Integration Project

Adaptation Need

The Trans-Saharan Road corridor is crucial for logistics and cross-border trade but is vulnerable to climate hazards such as extreme heat and flooding. The increasing frequency and intensity of flooding events and extreme temperatures—exacerbated by historically limited operations and maintenance (O&M)—are accelerating the deterioration of the RTS corridor in Niger and Chad. The vulnerability and degradation of road infrastructure pose significant challenges for both agropastoral logistics and access to secondary city markets in both countries. The frequent occurrence of extreme climate events contributes to the structural failures of the already fragile and aging road network, underscoring the need for urgent rehabilitation and improved maintenance planning.

GCA’s Added Value

GCA technical support included a Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment, which identified key climate risks like extreme temperatures, flooding, and sandstorms. These assessments were used to develop an adaptation investment plan that outlines measures to climate-proof the road infrastructure, particularly in high-risk areas, such as redesigning road materials for high temperatures, resizing and maintaining drainage structures, and integrating green spaces and erosion control. Temporary food storage and emergency logistics facilities were also suggested to improve regional self-sufficiency during disruptions. GCA also evaluated the impact of improved road resilience on rural logistics and food security, and proposed adaptation options such as planting indigenous trees for shade and windbreaks.