ABN’s quarterly highlights
Dr. Venter Mwongera, Communications Lead at the African Biodiversity Network, compiled updates of the Network’s Secretariat recent engagements in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. These encompass capacity building of partners in East Africa Sub Regional Node and participation in FAO’s biodiversity workshop in Zimbabwe. ABN also advocated for urgent collective action on climate change at UNEA-6. Updates feature insights from cross-cultural collaboration at the School of Schools event in Colombia and contributions to advancing agroecology at AFSA’s meeting. Here are briefs of these events;
Strengthening capacities of East Africa’s Sub Regional Node Partners for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development
The African Biodiversity Network (ABN) has made significant strides in capacity building within its East Africa node, focusing on gender, advocacy, policy, monitoring and evaluation, digital communication, and indigenous seed preservation. Through targeted training sessions and workshops, partners have gained valuable skills and knowledge in these critical areas. ABN’s efforts aim to empower partners to effectively advocate for biodiversity conservation, gender equality, and sustainable development. By enhancing capacities in monitoring and evaluation, partners can better assess the impact of their initiatives. Additionally, training in digital communication enables partners to amplify their voices and reach wider audiences, fostering greater awareness and action.
Fassil Gebeyehu advances African perspectives at FAO’s biodiversity workshop in Zimbabwe
Dr. Fassil, recently contributed to FAO’s workshop in Zimbabwe focusing on biodiversity for food and agriculture. His involvement highlighted ABN’s commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and biodiversity conservation across Africa. Fassil shared insights on African perspectives, emphasising the importance of biodiversity in ensuring food security and resilience to climate change. Through collaborative efforts with FAO and other partners, ABN continues to advocate for the integration of biodiversity conservation into agricultural policies and practices. Fassil’s participation underscores ABN’s dedication to fostering dialogue and action towards a more sustainable and resilient food system.
Venter Mwongera advances biodiversity conservation at UNEA-6, stresses urgent collective action
Dr. Venter, represented the African Biodiversity Network at UNEA-6. The theme, “Effective, inclusive and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution,” aligned with the Network’s philosophy. Her participation at this global event allowed her to champion the Network’s voice and advocate for strong, collaborative solutions to address our planet’s most pressing environmental challenges. She has penned the insights and action points gleaned from UNEA-6 titled: UNEA-6 Delivers hope for Africa: A cause for optimism
Fassil Gebeyehu drives cross-cultural collaboration and conservation initiatives at School of Schools event in Colombia
Dr. Fassil played a pivotal role at the School of Schools event in Colombia. His presence enriched the gathering, fostering cross-cultural learning and collaboration among re:arc partners. Representing ABN, Fassil shared insights on African conservation practices, sparking inspiration and appreciation. He also explored collaborative projects with Fundación Organizmo, focusing on sustainability and cultural preservation. Initiatives like TERRITORIO ARTESANO and COMUNIDAD Y HABITAT highlight ABN’s commitment to community empowerment and ecological governance. Fassil penned an article inspired by this event titled: Insights from the School of Schools: Dr. Fassil Gebeyehu reflects on global collaboration
Abdel Karim’s insights: Advancing agroecology amid challenges discussed at AFSA’s meeting
Abdel participated in the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa’s (AFSA) meeting as a youth representative from the African Biodiversity Network, sharing insights on COP28 outcomes. He highlighted progress in agroecology discussions but noted challenges with firm commitments. Strategies discussed included deeper CSO consultations and leveraging elder members’ expertise. Abdel emphasised the role of African CSOs in raising awareness of salient issues affecting the youth. He outlined challenges faced by youth, indigenous peoples, and pastoralists, including capacity limitations. The meeting aimed to bridge gaps between CSOs, policymakers, and negotiators, with follow-up actions planned.