Angola’s Banda Chibia Dam: A beacon of climate resilience and agricultural innovation

In southern Angola, where recurrent droughts have long threatened food security and livelihoods, a transformative initiative is offering hope and resilience. The Banda Chibia Dam, a joint effort led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Government of Angola, and the European Union, is delivering sustainable water solutions that support climate-smart agriculture and empower rural communities.

Restoring Water Access and Agricultural Productivity

Constructed under FAO’s technical leadership, the Banda Chibia Dam now provides permanent water access to over 500 farmers—285 of whom are women—across 750 hectares of farmland. This reliable irrigation has enabled year-round farming, reduced travel distances to water sources, and improved soil fertility. The dam also holds potential for hydroelectric power generation, offering clean energy to nearby communities.

Empowering farmers through innovation and inclusion

The project integrates the GreeNTD methodology, a participatory approach that brings together communities and institutions to co-design sustainable land and resource management strategies. Through Farmer Field Schools (FFS), small-scale farmers have received hands-on training in climate-smart practices, soil conservation, and adaptive farming techniques. Inclusive participation ensures that women, men, and youth benefit equitably, fostering community ownership and long-term sustainability.

A Model for replication across drought-prone regions

The Banda Chibia Dam has led to an 82% increase in crop diversity and production, with farms now supplying onions, cabbage, tomatoes, and citrus fruits to local and regional markets. The success of this integrated approach—combining infrastructure, innovation, and community empowerment—offers valuable lessons for replicating similar initiatives in other drought-affected regions of Angola and beyond.

The recent evaluation and RIMA analysis conducted on 22 July 2025 confirmed the dam’s role in enhancing food security, boosting incomes, and strengthening resilience against climate shocks.