Authors: Monroe Dikiny and Maureen Kabasa

Introduction

All regions worldwide are experiencing and will continue to experience the effects of climate change with varying magnitudes and consequences. The United Nations defines climate change as the long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns, and human activities are the main drivers of these changes (McMichael, 2003).

The Earth is currently experiencing warming at an unprecedented rate; according to a report by the World Weather Attributions Group (WWA), the deadly heatwave that hit Africa’s Sahel region in March and April could have been avoided through sustainable human activities (WWA, 2024).

Climate change exacerbates the multiple burdens of malnutrition due to its effects on food security, public health, water supply and quality, food safety, pest outbreaks, and maternal and child health care (Myers, 2017). Addressing the obstacles restricting access to a nutritious and varied diet requires viewing the food system comprehensively, including social protection, risk management, and agricultural extension systems.

To address this issue, international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement have set ambitious goals to limit global warming, peak greenhouse gas emissions, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 (Robiou, 2017). The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) is committed to adapting, mitigating, and enhancing resilience to climate change through the Climate Resilient Economies (CRE) programme. Through its work, ACTS has emphasized the need for urgent climate action. The CRE programme recognizes that effective leadership can drive policy changes, promote sustainable practices, and allocate resources for climate-resilient agriculture and nutrition programmes. Strong leadership can also influence international cooperation, encourage innovation in food systems, and raise awareness about the interconnectedness of climate change and nutrition security. Leaders can positively impact climate change mitigation and nutrition outcomes by championing climate-smart strategies and advocating for sustainable solutions. This blog expounds on key insights from the ACTS Pathways Academy webinar series held on March 28, 2024. The forum gathered panelists and participants from across Africa to discuss leadership for climate change and nutrition. The webinar aimed to gather insights on how Africa can utilize its leadership structures to enhance adaptation, resilience, and mitigation of climate change and nutritional aspects.

Key Insights

Emphasizing inclusion in climate action

Climate change poses significant challenges; however, the most vulnerable are - and will continue to be - the most affected: those who depend on natural resources, as well as the youth, women, and children (Denton, 2002). Environmental degradation due to climate change exacerbates malnutrition and food insecurity among these populations, compromising their health, education, and overall well-being (Myers, 2017). Women are crucial in food production, distribution, and household nutrition. Empowering women to access resources enhances resilience to climate change and strengthens community resilience. Their voices should be recognized and amplified to shape policies and initiatives related to nutrition and climate action at local, national, and international levels (Meybeck, 2017). Africa's youthful population presents an opportunity to actively involve the younger generation in advancing sustainable development. Their eagerness and commitment are crucial in driving progress.

Fostering partnerships towards sustainable development

To tackle pressing matters, we must encourage collaboration and forge partnerships that address and maintain environmental stability, social equity, and ethical leadership (Kuenkel, 2016). Organizations and individuals must work with other key economic stakeholders to ensure that Africa is working towards achieving key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) affecting the continent. Such activities should be channeled towards ensuring zero hunger (SDG1), good health and well-being (SDG3), gender equality (SDG5), clean water and sanitation (SDG6),  climate action (SDG13), peace as well as justice and strong institutions (SDG16). Collaborative partnerships with governments, NGOs, businesses, and communities enhance resource mobilization, knowledge sharing, and innovation thus fostering sustainable practices. Governments can take action to mitigate the effects of and support adaptation to climate change by actualizing  Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and creating National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) (Helgeson & Ellis, 2015).

Navigating climate change related challenges and opportunities

Agriculture is the first industry impacted by climate change (Nelson, 2009). Most impoverished households depend on agriculture, so the effects on the economy and society are most noticeable in these homes. Agricultural industries can help mitigate climate change by investing in sustainable farming practices, promoting biodiversity, and supporting smallholder farmers to enhance food security while mitigating climate change. This can include encouraging farmers to venture into beekeeping and growing fruit trees. According to a blog by  KIPPRA (2019), beekeeping and honey production offer numerous benefits. They contribute to biodiversity and boost crop yields by pollinating plants, trees, fruits, and crops. Beekeeping requires minimal capital, does not compete for resources, and promotes environmental conservation, benefiting climate change. Enhancing beekeeping can increase household incomes and provide additional cash for purchasing food.

Implementing successful leadership strategies

Engaging stakeholders at various levels is paramount in effective leadership for advancing climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food production (Srivastav, 2019). By gathering diverse perspectives and strategically aligning efforts, inclusive practices cultivate collaboration and ensure a comprehensive understanding of needs and priorities. Continuous project-based assessment and learning ensure accountability and effectiveness in leadership efforts (Ewell, 2009). Monitoring impact and identifying areas for improvement are vital aspects of this process. Compelling storytelling is crucial in inspiring action, raising awareness, and mobilizing additional resources. Through these integrated approaches, leaders empower communities, promote inclusivity, and drive progress toward a more sustainable and resilient food production system, embodying the essence of impactful leadership in addressing complex challenges. According to an article on the World Economic Forum, African leaders must take ambitious action on climate adaptation and mitigation to prevent fatalities and loss of livelihoods, particularly among higher-risk communities (WEF, 2024).

Strengthening the know-how skills and expertise

One of the fundamental climate change discourses is anchored in the Paris Agreement. Implementation of the Agreement requires economic and social transformation based on the best available science (Gomez, 2018). The Paris Agreement has been a front-runner discourse in building the capacity and capabilities of different actors involved in climate action. The CRE programme contributes to this goals mainly through capacity-building  in developing countries. This  has been made possible through the ACTS Pathways Academy, which has developed bespoke training and created a short, demand-driven course on climate policy and leadership. This skill is necessary to ensure Africa has able leaders who can give directions toward a sustainable path. This short course focuses on climate policies and policy-making streams that can propel participnats to international climate negotiation platforms.

In conclusion, addressing the nexus of nutrition and climate change requires collective action and inclusive strategies. Empowering the youth, minority groups, and women while leveraging innovative solutions can build a more equitable and sustainable future. Our current issues demand a drastic overhaul of all aspects of our existence, including our leadership structures, modes of production, and consumption patterns. To build a new generation with the vision, values, and technology needed to address issues like poverty, food security, and climate change, we must develop a new strategy and roadmap, align with developing worldviews, and construct an appropriate institutional structure. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) show that increasing productivity while preserving the environment requires innovative technologies and comprehensive approaches.

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