This new report provides a spatially-explicit characterisation of the ecological value of 45 Key Landscapes for Conservation and Development (KLCDs) across Sub-Saharan Africa. This study, conducted by the JRC team of the Biodiversity and Forest Component of the ArcX programme, provides critical insights for the second phase of the EU flagship NaturAfrica initiative. It supports biodiversity conservation while promoting sustainable development. The work notably focuses on critical ecosystems to benefit both the environment and local communities.
The assessment was carried out in response to a policy request from the European Commission`s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA) submitted through the European Commission’s Knowledge Centre for Biodiversity (KCBD) ’s Ticketing System for policy requests.
Metrics to evaluate the KLCDs were based on (1) threatened species richness; (2) species endemicity; (3) the integrity of protected and conserved areas, considering human modification and fragmentation; (4) connectivity between protected and conserved areas; and (5) ecosystem services, specifically regarding carbon and water services.
Considering the high variability of the metrics and the diversity of ecological profiles found across the landscapes, the report recommends avoiding a single aggregate ranking for funding prioritization. Instead, policymakers should select intervention areas based on specific targets — such as species conservation, connectivity, or water security — within each biogeographical region.
The findings highlight the importance of interpreting spatial data alongside local stakeholder validation to ensure effective implementation during NaturAfrica’s expansion.
Url: https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC145021
