The National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa, in collaboration with the Belmont Forum, has unveiled a significant funding initiative to support climate change research across Africa. This new Collaborative Research Action (CRA) aims to address critical knowledge gaps and priorities related to climate change vulnerability on the continent, in alignment with the African Union’s (AU) climate, environment, and sustainability goals outlined in Agenda 2063.
Dr. Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, CEO of the NRF, emphasized the initiative's importance, highlighting its goal to foster transdisciplinary research that bridges gaps between various scientific disciplines and societal sectors. "This funding opportunity is a significant step towards addressing the complex and multifaceted challenges posed by climate change in Africa," Dr. Nelwamondo stated. "By encouraging collaboration among researchers from different fields and countries, we aim to generate comprehensive and actionable knowledge to support sustainable development across the continent."
The Belmont Forum, a global consortium of funding agencies dedicated to addressing environmental changes, supports this effort. The Forum promotes transdisciplinary research that integrates knowledge from social sciences, natural sciences, and stakeholder communities to tackle global environmental challenges.
The NRF-led CRA focuses on three critical themes:
1. Water – Energy – Food – Health Nexus: This theme addresses the interconnectedness of water, energy, food, and health systems. Research under this theme aims to develop integrated solutions that enhance the sustainability and resilience of these critical resources.
2. Pollution: This theme focuses on understanding and mitigating pollution's impact on ecosystems and human health. It seeks innovative approaches to reduce pollution and promote cleaner environments.
3. Disaster Preparedness, Responsiveness, and Recovery: This theme emphasizes building resilience to natural disasters and improving strategies for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The goal is to reduce the adverse impacts of disasters on communities and ecosystems.
Researchers from across Africa are encouraged to submit proposals addressing at least one of these themes. Proposals should demonstrate cross-cutting linkages across multiple areas and integrate aspects of the blue and green economies, education, and public awareness. Given the scope and complexity of the challenges, proposals must be transdisciplinary and transnational, involving researchers from at least three countries.
"The complexity of climate change requires a holistic approach," said Dr. Michelle Scobie, a member of the Belmont Forum Steering Committee. "This CRA is designed to facilitate the kind of collaborative, inclusive research that can lead to meaningful solutions for communities facing the impacts of climate change."
The initiative particularly focuses on fostering research involving societal partners, including industry, civil society organizations, and local communities. This participatory approach ensures that the research is grounded in real-world needs and contexts, enhancing its relevance and impact.
The deadline for proposal registration is September 2, 2024. Details of the call and the application process are provided HERE
Article by Jed Mwangi
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