Fostering a Resilient Community of Practice: Advancing Adaptation Efforts in the Horn of Africa

Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) has established the Community of Practice on Adaptation Network for the Horn of Africa to amplify the voices of communities directly impacted by climate crises while driving ambitious adaptation strategies in alignment with the region’s unique needs. Towards

As climate change and its unpredictable variations continue to pose existential threats, the African continent stands as a stark example of the disproportionate impacts borne by the least responsible. Despite being a relatively minor contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, Africa remains acutely susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change. These effects reverberate across various sectors, such as reduced agricultural productivity, increased incidences of flooding and droughts, rampant disease outbreaks, and amplified risks of conflicts over dwindling land and water resources.

Speaking at the opening session of the establishment of the Community of Practice on Adaptation for the Horn of Africa, Dr.Mithika Mwenda, the Executive Director of the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), told participants, “The West has been relegating adaptation for Africa and paying more mind to mitigation. It is crucial that we ensure adaptation is not forgotten in negotiations. The African position on adaptation remains unwavering and we must do what is important for us, invest more in locally-led climate action and of cos climate resilient practices that allow us to adapt and build resilience towards the effects of the climate crisis.”

Moreover, Africa’s limited adaptive capacity and complex interaction of stressors intensify its vulnerability, obstructing long-term economic growth and sustainable development. The region’s dependence on rain-fed agriculture, coupled with low productivity, leaves economies exposed to the whims of climate variability, translating into annual GDP fluctuations of up to 30 percent. Against this backdrop, the dire need for adaptation measures becomes unmistakably clear.

Dr.Olufunso Somorin- Regional Principal Officer at African Development Bank (AfDB) highlighted the fact that the bank remains a huge invested development partner in adaptation, which goes beyond financial investment and even more so in applying relevant influence when deemed necessary. He vehemently cautioned that “We have a leadership crisis in Africa, we have to reduce reliance on government and build a new network that is focused on communities which is why the establishment of this community of practice is very timely.”

 Through a three-year project supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, PACJA envisions a coalition of core constituencies that will amplify the adaptation needs and priorities of communities on the frontlines of climate change.

The initiative will engage  youth, women, faith-based groups, indigenous communities, and advocacy movements. Furthermore, PACJA aims to co-create advocacy strategies that focus on adaptation, resilience building, and sustainable energy access. This collaboration empowers local communities to become leading voices in shaping climate adaptation policies and initiatives at local, national, and global levels. The initiative addresses the inherent gaps in adaptation commitments and financing, thereby fostering a more equitable and effective response to the climate crisis.

Dr.Mithika Mwenda the Executive Director of the Pan- African Climate Justice Alliance reminded everyone that the  future lies in humanity’s hands and hence actions must be aligned with that which is of importance and not be misguided or distracted by non-issues. He said, “ We achieve more by maintaining our focus on the real issues that are of concern to Africa and continue to generate solutions for Africa and by Africans.”

The Community of Practice on Adaptation Network for the Horn of Africa region sets forth on a transformative journey aimed at elevating adaptation efforts across all levels.

 Nobert TUYISHIME  from the East Africa Farmers Association noted that the association is a trusted and committed partner who will play a coordinating role to ensure the community or practice established here to ensure that they will continue to work closely to advance the African position on adaptation and discharging their mandate.

As a result of this groundbreaking initiative, the Horn of Africa region is poised to witness a surge in adaptation ambition, bolstered by the collective wisdom, expertise, and advocacy efforts of its diverse constituents. By advocating for climate resilience, amplifying community voices, and fostering collaboration, the Community of Practice on Adaptation Network serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective action in the face of an ever-evolving climate reality.

In a world where climate change transcends borders, the establishment of the Horn of Africa Community of Practice on Adaptation Network represents a promising step forward, inspiring similar initiatives worldwide to forge resilient communities, empower vulnerable populations, and build a more sustainable future for all.