I am thrilled to share my recent participation in the prestigious 2023 International Conference on « Coastal Vulnerabilities, Monitoring and Developments » WACA-VAR (West and Central Africa Coastal Areas – Vulnerability, Adaptability, and Resilience in a Changing Climate). Held in the vibrant city of Douala, Cameroon, from the 4th to the 5th of December 2023, this conference brought together experts, scientists, and enthusiasts from coastal regions along the Gulf of Guinea.
During this enlightening event, I had the honour of presenting an oral presentation on a topic that lies close to my heart – « Vulnerability of Coastal Cities and Mangroves to the Combined Effects of Land Subsidence, Relative Sea-Level Rise, and Groundwater Extraction along the Low-Lying Coastland of Cameroon. »
My presentation delved into the intricate web of challenges faced by coastal areas, exploring the synergistic impact of land subsidence, relative sea-level rise, and groundwater extraction on the vulnerable low-lying coastland of Cameroon. The aim was to shed light on the urgent need for adaptive strategies and resilience-building measures in the face of a changing climate.
Participating in this conference was a truly enriching experience. It provided me with a platform to share my research findings, engage in stimulating discussions, and exchange insights with hundreds of fellow scientists and experts. The diversity of perspectives and wealth of knowledge shared during the conference further underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing coastal vulnerabilities on a global scale.
The conference was not just a forum for academic discourse; it was also an occasion for networking and building connections with professionals who share a common goal – safeguarding our coastal regions. The opportunity to interact with experts from various coastal countries along the Gulf of Guinea was invaluable, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility in addressing the challenges faced by our coastal ecosystems.
I am grateful for the experience and look forward to contributing further to the ongoing dialogue on coastal vulnerabilities. As we navigate the complexities of a changing climate, it is imperative that we continue to work together to develop sustainable solutions that ensure the resilience and adaptability of our coastal areas.
In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to the organizers of the WACA-VAR conference for providing a platform that facilitates meaningful discussions and fosters collaboration among those dedicated to the well-being of our coastal environments.
