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In response to the vulnerability of the district, UNESCO initiated a project in early 2021 with the aim of reducing the community's susceptibility to natural disasters and enhancing water resource management in the face of climate change uncertainties. The project took an integrated approach, utilizing the Climate Risk Informed Decision Analysis (CRIDA) methodology to address water-related risks and vulnerabilities.

The initial step of the CRIDA implementation focused on establishing the decision context. Stakeholders joined forces to identify the diverse causes of droughts, floods and landslides, as well as its effects, direct and indirect impacts and external pressures. 

The importance of considering climate change in water resources planning is recognized in the second CRIDA step where a climate stress test and a medium term water vulnerability assessment were developed. The analysis indicated a possible risk on enhanced drought severity and duration. Stakeholders decided to focus on drought adaptation during the next CRIDA steps.

During a stakeholder workshop, possible adaptation actions were listed with a specific focus on nature-based solutions. As part of CRIDA step 3, the stakeholders agreed on a clear ¡®first priority¡¯: further implementation and upscaling of the check dams in the area, and particularly in the areas affected by landslide and flood exposure areas.

The efficiency of check dams as an adequate drought adaptation action was evaluated during the fourth CRIDA step. Decentralized check dams were compared with one large dam and proved to be favourable. Additionally, two other nature-based solutions, sand dams and small constructed wetlands, were researched and identified as additional adaptation actions.

The success of this project highlights the utility of CRIDA as a tool for identifying stakeholder-supported adaptation interventions. By combining rigorous analysis and stress testing, UNESCO and its partners were able to develop a nature-based intervention that not only reduces disaster risk but also promotes socio-economic development and livelihoods in the Chimanimani District.

Through comprehensive resilience building efforts driven by CRIDA, the Chimanimani District is better prepared to face future climate challenges. The lessons learned from this project can serve as a valuable guide for other regions seeking to enhance their resilience and adapt to a changing climate.