Alumni learn, network and discuss potential solutions at a Climate Resilience Workshop in Pretoria

The Climate Resilience Workshop held in South Africa provided an invaluable opportunity for nineteen alumni from various southern African countries to learn, network, and discuss potential solutions to climate change challenges in the region. Hosted by the Australian High Commission South Africa in partnership with Australia Awards Africa on 8 and 9 April 2024, the event took place at the Fire & Ice Hotel in Pretoria.

Mr. David Geyer, Deputy High Commissioner of the Australian High Commission South Africa, opened the workshop with welcome remarks on 8 April. Attendees also watch video messages from HE Ms. Minoli Perera, the Australian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, and HE Ms. Kate Chamley, the Australian High Commissioner to Mauritius.

Workshop moderator Ms. Yanga Malotana, Project Manager and Communications Lead at Emerging Scholars Initiative (ESI Press) at the University of Pretoria, facilitated interactive discussions focused on finding potential solutions to climate change challenges.

The first day’s sessions covered topics such as global perspectives on climate change, vulnerability and adaptation in the climate space, political systems and climate change, and practical climate resilience strategies. Presentations by the Deputy High Commissioner, Ms. Kgaugelo Mkumbeni from the Institute for Security Studies, and other speakers such as Dr Grego Feig, Ms. Jesse Burton, and Dr. Heather Thuynsma provided diverse viewpoints on climate change in Africa and beyond. Day One concluded with an interactive session on building climate resilience strategies, followed by an evening reception where participants networked and engaged in further discussions.

Day Two concentrated on themes such as transforming the climate crisis into opportunities and advocating for climate justice through collaborative action. Notable speakers included Mandy Jayakody from the Presidential Climate Commission and Dr. Nqobile Xaba from the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA). The day also featured a panel discussion on youth perspectives on climate advocacy.

Towards the end of the workshop, Mr.  Nolo Mokoena and Dr. Okito Wedi from CRTVE Development led a creative and engaging session on African-owned and -led development through authentic storytelling and research. Their presentation highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between people and policy.

As a result of the workshop, the attendees formed an Alumni Climate Resilience Working Group, which will work towards establishing a Pan-African Climate Change Community of Practice (COP) in the near future. This initiative aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing across the continent to address climate change challenges more effectively.