Across Africa, failure to adapt to unintended global change processes, are creating urgent environmental challenges that demand scientific attention. Building the capacity for high-quality research in Africa is therefore critical, requiring not only skilled people and scientific infrastructure, but also inclusive opportunities for sustained collaboration across regions, disciplines, and sectors. Over the past years, a variety of European and African initiatives have supported capacity development, ranging from training programmes and research infrastructure to collaborative projects and community engagement. Yet these efforts often remain scattered and unsustainable, limiting their visibility and long-term impact.
This interdisciplinary session invites contributions that strengthen Africa’s research capacity in the environmental, and climate sciences. We welcome initiatives that address all stages of the research cycle: the collection of in situ and remotely sensed data; the development of models and analytical frameworks; the translation of research into practical applications; and the communication of results to stakeholders, policy makers, and communities. Submissions may include co-designed monitoring systems, field and training networks, open science and FAIR data initiatives, cross-continental partnerships, and efforts to embed research within global policy frameworks such as the SDGs, Paris Agreement and Sendai Framework. Submissions across the full range of sub-disciplines are encouraged, including but not limited to global change, natural hazards, land and ecosystem dynamics and sustainable resource use.
We particularly encourage examples that highlight inclusivity, equity, and African leadership - such as programmes empowering early-career researchers, women scientists, and underrepresented institutions. By showcasing diverse initiatives, this session aims to share effective practices, identify common challenges, and inspire new pathways for collaboration within and beyond Africa - Europe partnerships. A follow-up splinter meeting will provide additional space for discussion, networking and exchange among interested participants.