By Abbas Nazil
Experts have underscored the critical role of indigenous knowledge in shaping sustainable climate change adaptation strategies for African communities.
They noted that traditional expertise, when embedded into policy frameworks, can provide locally appropriate solutions that effectively support vulnerable populations.
Dr Alvin Munyaisa, a Climate Fellow with AGNES, highlighted that vulnerable groups must be included in decision-making processes to ensure climate solutions reflect their realities.
Speaking during a media roundtable organised by Global Health Strategies (GHS) and AfriCatalyst, he called for a multi-pronged approach focusing on agriculture, water management, and food security.
He added that research should be directed at validating traditional adaptation techniques while avoiding maladaptation risks.
The Kampala Declaration was cited as a guiding framework, urging governments to allocate at least 10 per cent of budgetary resources to community adaptation initiatives.
This, according to the experts, would position local communities not as passive recipients but as active contributors to climate solutions.
They also recommended policies that promote synergy between global climate conventions and indigenous knowledge systems, alongside increased financial and technical support for rural populations.
Munyaisa emphasised that indigenous systems vary across African countries, making context-specific approaches essential.
He noted that respecting cultural differences is key to ensuring long-term success in climate adaptation efforts.
The initiative, he explained, is meant to transform the perception of African communities from one of victimhood to resilience, showcasing their innovations in addressing climate challenges.
Dr Hamady Diop, Senior Advisor to the AU Special Envoy on Food Systems, also addressed the session, stressing that the African Union is championing a transformative approach in international climate negotiations.
He traced the continent’s journey from fragmented representation to a unified strategy, noting that Africa is now presenting stronger, coordinated positions at global forums.
He recalled how agriculture was barely included in climate debates during the Paris Agreement talks, but by COP28 in Dubai, the continent had already secured greater recognition for its priorities.
Diop said Africa’s strategic pivot is about building collective strength among 55 member states to challenge historical imbalances where global powers dictated terms.
He insisted that Africa’s 1.2 billion people deserve a strong voice in shaping international climate and agricultural policies.
This new posture has already delivered results, including African candidates securing leadership roles at the World Health Organisation and World Trade Organisation through AU-backed processes.
Diop further highlighted Africa’s growing influence within the G20, though challenges such as symbolic engagement, fragmented coordination, limited technical expertise, and geopolitical complexities remain.
He stressed the need to establish robust structures, including a dedicated secretariat, to effectively coordinate Africa’s positions and interests.
The experts also called for more evidence-based policy proposals and stronger coordination with regional economic communities and UN systems.
They identified climate change, digital infrastructure, and global economic equity as areas requiring urgent and unified African responses.
The event also saw the launch of two reports – The African Union in the G20, jointly developed by Global Health Strategies and Africa Catalyst, and a companion policy brief titled Maximising Africa’s Influence in the G20.
Both documents provide a blueprint for Africa to move from symbolic presence to strategic influence in global policy discussions, reinforcing the continent’s growing diplomatic confidence.
