The Africa Climate Mobility Academy (ACMA) 2024 Writeshop, held at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) in Kakamega, Kenya, proved to be an enlightening and transformative experience for all participants. As one of the fellows, I had the privilege of engaging in an intensive program designed to enhance our expertise in climate change and mobility studies while advancing our individual research projects.
The writeshop was meticulously organized and delivered invaluable learning experiences. Expert mentors led input sessions on critical themes related to climate mobility, including applied research methods, ethics, literature review strategies, and critical analysis tools. These sessions equipped us with practical tools to refine our manuscripts and research methodologies. The focused writing sessions and mock peer reviews offered a constructive space to apply these insights, as we received detailed feedback from mentors and fellow researchers alike.
Each fellow had the opportunity to present their research, followed by engaging Q&A sessions that fostered intellectual exchange. My presentation on sustainable water solutions for Samburu County, Kenya received thoughtful input, helping me advance my work and situate it within the broader discourse on climate adaptation and resilience.
Beyond the academic rigor, the program created spaces for fellowship and networking. Highlights included the welcome dinner on the first evening and the closing certificate ceremony, where we celebrated our progress and accomplishments together. These moments reinforced the camaraderie among fellows and mentors, building a community committed to advancing climate resilience research across Africa.
Fellows and Their Research Focus
The diversity of topics presented by the fellows underscored the breadth of challenges and opportunities in addressing climate mobility. Highlights included:
- Said Skounti (Morocco): Examined the impacts of climate change on nomadic communities in Morocco.
- Aondowase Targba, PhD (Nigeria): Focused on displacement and its implications in Nigeria.
- Sindiso Ndlovu (Southern Africa): Explored climate-induced security risks in the region.
- Otwori Dennis (Kenya): Presented on climate-smart agriculture as a tool for youth empowerment.
- Temitope Ayo Obisanya (South Africa): Investigated the role of AI in advancing climate solutions.
- Yasmin Hussein (Global): Discussed global governance’s role in fostering climate resilience.
- Grace Ohene Amponsah, Mandlenkosi Maphosa, and Hafsa Omar Abdilahi: Explored gender dynamics and family migration decisions in response to climate crises across various African regions.
Mentors and Organizers
The guidance of expert mentors played a pivotal role in shaping our research trajectories. Special thanks to Sahmicit Kumswa, Pauline Mateveke, Oluwatoyin Adejonwo, PhD, Dr. Lucy Mandillah, Ademola Oluborode Jegede, SUSAN M. KILONZO, Nicodemus Nyandiko, Joyce Takaindisa, Joram Tarusarira, and Dr. Gracsious Maviza (nee Ncube) for their dedicated support.
The writeshop was made possible by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT / CGIAR, represented by Bina Desai, in collaboration with co-conveners MMUST and the Climate Mobility Africa Research Network (CMARN). Their efforts in organizing this program created a transformative learning environment for fellows.
Takeaways and Impact
This experience deepened my understanding of the intersections between climate change, mobility, and human resilience. The opportunity to collaborate with passionate researchers and mentors from across the continent has inspired me to continue advancing impactful solutions for climate challenges in Africa. As I reflect on this enriching week, I am more committed than ever to promoting sustainable development and climate action through research, collaboration, and advocacy.
Moving Forward
As fellows, we leave the ACMA 2024 Writeshop equipped with enhanced skills, strengthened networks, and refined research ideas. Together, we are poised to make meaningful contributions to the climate mobility discourse and to foster sustainable, inclusive solutions for Africa and beyond.
