Future Climate For Africa (FCFA) presents a rich and interactive discussion on the barriers and enablers to improving Southern leadership and how these lessons can inform improved design models for future programmes.
A strong Southern presence in leadership positions is commonly attributed towards ensuring that research collaborations have an impact on the ground. However, there still remains a significant capacity gap between Northern and Southern institutions (and in some cases researchers’ capacity). Existing programme design can limit Southern partners’ ability to actively and effectively contribute towards the design of the projects as well as take up more leadership positions. Studies have explored some of the persistent challenges confronting capacity development initiatives, with a focus on researchers, organisations and stakeholders. It is important to acknowledge the well-supported link between leadership and capacity, particularly when capacity extends beyond the abilities of individuals and into organisations and systems.
Through the experiences of Future Climate For Africa (FCFA), the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN), Collaborative Adaptation Research Initiative in Africa and Asia (CARIAA) programmes and session participants, we share lessons from the successes and failures of existing efforts to answer the following questions:
- What should equitable leadership look like?
- How do we best facilitate capacity development within individuals, stakeholders and institutions?
- What changes are needed to create a more inclusive environment that supports long-term capacity development activities?
This learning session provides insight into the experiences of Southern researchers involved in international multi-consortia research and development programmes (FCFA, CARIAA and CDKN) and engages with participants during the breakout sessions. If you would like to view a recording of any of the interactive breakout sessions, please email info@futureclimateafrica.org.
SPEAKERS:- Genito Maure, Eduardo Mondlane University
- Perspectives from the Future Climate For Africa (FCFA) programme
- Cecil Togarepi, University of Namibia
- Perspectives from the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) programme
- Download Cecil’s Presentation
- Lucia Scodanibbio, SouthSouthNorth
- Perspectives from the Collaborative Adaptation Research Initiative in Africa and Asia (CARIAA)
