PACJA Opens the Curtains for the Ambitious Third Generation of Its Strategic Plan

Members of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) have begun developing the third generation of their Strategic Plan for 2026-2030. This initiative was launched during a two-day Continental Governance Council and staff retreat held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from February 10^th to 11^th. The gathering aimed to reflect on the achievements of 2024, strengthen team cohesion, and collaboratively create a comprehensive action plan for 2025. Additionally, the discussions initiated strategic planning for the period 2026–2030, ensuring that PACJA remains aligned with its mission and responsive to the evolving climate landscape.

This meeting followed the election of a new continental Governing Council, which will provide strategic guidance to the alliance. The year 2025 marks the conclusion of the strategic plan that began in 2021. As this process begins, global challenges may necessitate a change in strategic approach and innovation

Dr. Augustine Njamnshi, Chair of Technical and Political Affairs at PACJA, commented on the PACJA 3.0 Strategic Plan, noting that it presents challenges in advancing its original agenda, which seeks to ensure sustainable and effective participation of the masses in climate decision-making.

“This new version is being adopted during a time when right-wing movements are gaining ground, leading to a rise in climate deniers. There is a real risk that the progress we have made over the years could be reversed,” Dr. Augustine stated. He stressed the urgency of this concern, particularly given that the leader of the most powerful nation on Earth, the United States, views climate change as a scam. “We must not remain passive in the face of this.

The past few years have marked significant milestones in PACJA’s advocacy efforts, driven by the strategic plan initiated in 2021. As the alliance approaches the final year of its implementation, it is crucial to reflect on  achievements and lessons learned.

Dr. Augustine emphasized that this reflection will enable PACJA to identify strengths to leverage and obstacles to address, enhancing our impact moving forward. “By reviewing our strategies and outcomes, we can ensure our future actions are evidence-based and grounded in the realities faced by the communities we serve”, He stressed.

Dr Mithika Mwenda, the Executive Director of PACJA, reminded members that PACJA is currently operating in an unprecedented context, where the continent is facing security issues, migration crises, breaches of democracy, and other challenges that are exacerbating climate action.

   He noted that the retreat occurred at the end of PACJA’s strategy for 2021-2025, which primarily focused on decentralizing PACJA’s work at the country level, with DNPs leading policy influence and advocacy processes. He called for synergy to ensure the next strategic plan is effectively implemented while considering global trends.

“Changing the world doesn’t require a large number of people; it requires a group of like-minded individuals unified by a common purpose. Whether you come from civil society, a ministry, a local community, or any other group, collaboration is essential. Change is achievable even amid shifting geopolitical interests, and we must believe in our ability to address these challenges. So, let’s prepare ourselves. I am confident we are heading in the right direction.

Dr. Augustine Njamnshi stated that the purpose of PACJA 3.0 is to strengthen the capacity of PACJA’s grassroots movement, enabling the alliance to continue advocating for climate change initiatives and ensuring that it has the necessary resources to combat its impacts.

He said that this work must be undertaken within a broader context that promotes cooperation among various movements, not only in the Global South but also in the Global North. “Together, we must fight not only against climate change but also against the right-wing movements that deny its existence” he affirmed.

For more about PACJA’s strategic plans and their implementation, read here.