Bahia launches updated desertification strategy and expands rural sustainability mission

The Bahia State Secretariat of the Environment (Sema) attended the 8th National Meeting on Desertification in Brasília on 12‑13 May, where it presented an updated State Plan to combat desertification and adapt to climate change in the semi‑arid region. The plan outlines actions on sustainable soil and water management, reforestation, resilient agriculture and institutional strengthening, with public participation scheduled for June‑July in the municipalities of Juazeiro and Guanambi.

Concurrently, the regional development agency CAR, together with the Bahia Rural Development Secretariat, FIDA and the Inter‑American Development Bank, carried out a supervision mission (12‑15 May) for the “Parceiros da Mata” project. The mission reviewed progress, identified obstacles and reinforced implementation to generate income, improve food security, provide basic services, protect the environment and enhance climate‑adaptation capacities in Atlantic Forest rural communities. CAR director‑president Jeandro Ribeiro said, "Passos importantes já foram dados e, apesar dos desafios, seguimos trabalhando para ampliar as oportunidades das famílias envolvidas." The initiative is co‑financed by the IDB and FIDA, highlighting a collaborative model of international and state resources.