A data-driven review of UNDP’s investments and development interventions across West and Central Africa from 2017–2021, this report examines the region’s evolving risks, resilience factors and financing landscape to identify pathways for more inclusive, climate-smart and economically diversified development. Covering 24 countries, the analysis explores how conflict, climate change, governance challenges and demographic pressures intersect with opportunities for growth, regional integration and innovation.

Drawing on more than 2,700 interventions, 181 planning frameworks, extensive stakeholder interviews and multiple financing streams, the report highlights critical gaps in programming, partnerships and investment approaches, while outlining UNDP’s comparative advantages in advancing governance, resilience, local development and climate action. It also proposes a forward-looking portfolio approach to strengthen coordination, scale impact and unlock new financing partnerships across the region.