In the face of a rapidly changing climate, Africa stands at a critical juncture. The continent, while contributing the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, remains disproportionately vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Addressing this challenge requires not only robust policies and actions but also a skilled and knowledgeable cadre of leaders who can drive climate action at international, regional, national and subnational levels. This is where the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) Capacity Development and Training workstream steps in, serving as a cornerstone for building Africa’s internal capacity to tackle climate change effectively.
The AGNES has been a trailblazer in capacity building, equipping African experts, policymakers, and leaders with knowledge, skills and tools needed to advance the continent’s climate agenda. At the heart of this effort is the flagship Climate Governance, Diplomacy, and Negotiations Leadership Program, launched in 2020. This program has been instrumental in shaping a new generation of African climate leaders, empowering them to engage confidently in international climate policy discussions and to drive impactful climate action at national and regional levels. To date, the program has trained over 1,375 experts across all 54 African countries, creating a vibrant network of professionals who are not only well-versed in the intricacies of climate science and policy but also adept at advocating for Africa’s unique interests on the global stage.
AGNES’s commitment to capacity development doesn’t stop there. Recognizing the evolving nature of climate challenges, the workstream has expanded its offerings to include advanced courses tailored to address emerging issues and opportunities in the climate space. These include:
- Climate Outlook, Impact Assessment, and Climate Risk Assessment: The course provides technical training on climate modelling, impact prediction, and risk assessment methodologies to enhance decision-making and resilience planning.
- Climate Finance and Innovative Business Models: As financing remains a critical barrier to climate action in Africa, this course focuses on hand-on training in the development of bankable proposals with an aim of unlocking more finances for climate action. The program explores innovative business models, public-private partnerships, and funding opportunities that can drive climate action and green investments in Africa.
- Digital Technology, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence: In an era of rapid technological advancement, this course explores how cutting-edge tools and technologies can be harnessed to enhance climate modelling including climate monitoring and predictive analysis, optimize resource management, and improve decision-making processes.
These advanced courses reflect AGNES’s forward-thinking approach, ensuring that African leaders are not only prepared for today’s challenges but are also equipped to anticipate and address tomorrow’s uncertainties.
Our Approach: Practical, Impact-Driven Learning
At AGNES, we believe that capacity building must go beyond theoretical knowledge. Our training approach incorporates:
- Interactive Simulations & Case Studies: Enabling participants to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
- Expert-Led Sessions: Featuring seasoned field experts, scientists, and policymakers.
- Collaborative Networking Opportunities: Facilitating peer-to-peer learning and cross-sector partnerships to enhance knowledge exchange.
- Mentorship & Alumni Engagement: Supporting continuous learning and professional development beyond the training sessions.
As we look to the future, AGNES remains committed to its mission of building a resilient and climate-smart Africa. Through its innovative training programs, the Capacity Development and Training workstream is not just shaping leaders—it is shaping the future of the continent. Together, we are building a legacy of knowledge, empowerment, and action that will endure for generations to come.