<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422427" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The logo the World Economic Forum (WEF) on a window at the Congress Center in Davos, Switzerland, on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023. The annual Davos gathering of political leaders, top executives and celebrities runs from January 16 to 20. Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Davos-Klosters, 17 January 2023 –&nbsp;The Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship announced today 16 awardees for social innovation in 2023. The 2023 Social Innovators of the Year includes a list of outstanding founders and chief executive officers, multinational and regional business leaders, government leaders and recognized experts. The list includes a Nigerian entrepreneur supporting smallholder farmers increase profits and turning at-risk young people into entrepreneurs; a New York-based pioneer of “open hiring” that helps individuals facing barriers to meaningful employment by offering work with no interviews, no background checks and no resumés; and a Brazilian collective network of more than 70 organizations in 14 countries that monitors land use and change to promote the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources and fight climate change. The awardees were selected in recognition of their innovative approach and potential for global impact by Schwab Foundation Board members. The selection committee includes Helle Thorning-Schmidt, Prime Minister of Denmark (2011-2015), and social innovation expert Johanna Mair, Professor of Organization, Strategy and Leadership at the Hertie School of Governance in Germany, and H.M. Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Honorary Board Member. “The Social Innovators of the Year 2023 represent a generation of social and environmental change leaders who demonstrate that innovative models of cooperation and action across sectors are critical to making progress on the complex challenges we face,” said&nbsp;Hilde Schwab, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship. This year’s World Economic Forum Annual Meeting marks the 25th anniversary of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship. In 1998 Hilde Schwab, together with her husband Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, created the foundation to support new models for social change, combining values and dedication with the best business principles to create a more just, sustainable and equitable world. Today, the foundation has a thriving community of over 450 global social entrepreneurs that has impacted the lives of nearly 1 billion people in 190 countries. The entrepreneurs offer access to healthcare, education, housing, finance, digital skills and advocacy networks resulting in job creation economic opportunity, improved health and stability. “Complex problems cannot be tackled by single organizations, and this year’s Schwab Foundation awardees show new models of collaborating across sectors using innovative technology, human networks and shared resources and knowledge. Many social innovators have a long history of working in collaboration with others. The ambition now is in creating systemic change through collective efforts,” said&nbsp;François Bonnici, Director of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship. The 2023 Schwab Foundation Awards are hosted in a long-term partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.motsepefoundation.org/">Motsepe Foundation</a>, founded on the philosophy of “Ubuntu”, the African concept of giving and caring for your neighbour and other members of your community. “Social entrepreneurs act as a bridge that connects ethics and values to our business principles. I believe these entrepreneurs are designing a blueprint for meaningful economies by re-imagining progress during these uncertain times,” said Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Co-Chair, Motsepe Foundation and Chancellor of the University of Cape Town. The 2023 awardees are awarded across four categories: Social entrepreneurs Pioneering systemic solutions for social and environmental challenges ranging from refugee family reunification and human rights to water infrastructure and financial inclusion.



<ul>
<li>Ady Beitler, CEO, Nilus (Argentina)&nbsp;– leads the Argentinian social enterprise that uses technology and sharing economy models to reduce food loss and waste. His organization&#8217;s mission is to alleviate hunger by lowering the cost of healthy food for those on low incomes – a goal it achieves by rescuing food that would otherwise be wasted and distributing it at discounted prices.</li>



<li>Aniket Doegar, CEO, Haqdarshak Empowerment Solutions Private Limited (India)&nbsp;– has led the Indian social impact organization working on easing access to welfare for seven years. It digitized welfare schemes and provided application support to more than 120,000 people in low-income rural and urban communities.</li>



<li>Aref Husseini, CEO, Al Nayzak Foundation for Extra Curricular Education and Scientific Innovation (Palestine Territories)&nbsp;– challenging traditional teaching methods in the Palestinian education system to produce more students who are critical thinkers and who approach problem solving through research, analysis and scientific thinking.</li>



<li>Celina de Sola, President, Glasswing International (El Salvador)&nbsp;– empowers individuals and communities to address the root causes of poverty and violence through education and health programmes. Glasswing has expanded from its El Salvador base to 10 other countries and has impacted more than 1.5 million lives since 2007.</li>



<li>Joseph Kenner, CEO, Greyston (USA)&nbsp;– the New York-based pioneer of “open hiring” that helps individuals facing barriers to meaningful employment by offering work with no interviews, no background checks and no resumés. Best known for its bakery, Greyston is now expanding its reach and aims to provide open-hiring employment opportunities to 40,000 Americans by 2030.</li>



<li>Kola Masha, Managing Director, Babban Gona (Nigeria)&nbsp;– helps smallholder farmers increase profits and turns at-risk young people into entrepreneurs. Babban Gona’s unique technology platform helps farmers increase yields and aims to create millions of youth jobs, breaking a cycle of poverty and violence in rural communities.</li>



<li>Säbeen Haque, Executive Director, doctHERS (Pakistan)&nbsp;– connects female doctors to millions of under-served patients using digital technology through the innovative healthcare platform doctHERS. The online marketplace helps reintegrate women medical practitioners into the workforce and empowers marginalized communities by circumventing sociocultural barriers that can restrict access to healthcare.</li>
</ul>



Corporate Social Intrapreneurs: Leaders within multinational or regional companies who drive the development of new products, initiatives, services, or business models that address societal and environmental challenges.



<ul>
<li>Benoît Bonello, Social Innovation Director, SUEZ Group (France)&nbsp;– leading the company’s inclusive business approach with the goal of delivering a positive impact on society and the environment.</li>



<li>Kanika Pal, South Asia Sustainability Head, Hindustan Unilever (India)&nbsp;– an award-winning CSR and sustainability professional with over 17 years of experience, Pal quit the corporate sector from 2015 to 2017 and founded the Solutions for Clean and Healthy Environment Foundation to influence behaviour change for a cleaner planet.</li>
</ul>



Public Social Intrapreneurs: Leaders in the public sector, be it local or national governments or representatives of international organizations, who harness the power of social innovation and social entrepreneurship to create public good through policy, regulation, or public initiatives. The Schwab Foundation is the first of its kind to recognize public sector changemakers.



<ul>
<li>Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Mayor, Freetown City Council (Sierra Leone) – committed to transforming the city’s services, infrastructure and environment using an inclusive data-driven approach. The mayor’s three-year Transform Freetown plan details 19 concrete targets in 11 sectors covering issues ranging from waste management to improving urban planning and tackling environmental degradation.</li>



<li>Bushra Al Mulla, Director General, Family Care Authority of Abu Dhabi (UAE)&nbsp;– has been a serial intrapreneur in the Abu Dhabi government and has transformed the lives of families, children and people with disabilities through integration of public services to establish a holistic approach to families, allowing them to live as empowered citizens in the emirate.</li>
</ul>



Collective Social Innovation: Organizations coming together to address complex problems that cannot be tackled by individual actors, leveraging pooled assets such as knowledge, innovative solutions, human capital, access to networks and communication channels.



<ul>
<li>MapBiomas (Brazil), co-led by Tasso Azevedo, Founder and General Coordinator, Julia Shimbo, Scientific Coordinator, and Marcos Rosa, Technical Coordinator&nbsp;– a collaborative network of more than 70 organizations in 14 countries that monitors land use and land use change to promote the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources and fight climate change.&nbsp;</li>



<li>ProjectTogether (Germany), co-led by Philipp von der Wippel, Founder and Co-CEO, and Henrike Schlottmann, Co-CEO&nbsp;– an innovation platform based in Germany that supports the next generation in developing ground-breaking ideas from circular economy projects to climate-positive agriculture. to supporting refugees. It has supported more than 1,000 social pioneers and built a network of over 500 volunteer coaches and 400 experts.</li>



<li>Punjab Education Collective (India), co-led by Khushboo Awasthi, Chief Operating Officer of ShikshaLokam, Rucha Pande, Chief Operating Officer at Mantra4Change, and Simranpreet Oberoi, Co-Founder and Leader of Sanjhi Sikhiya&nbsp;– a collective of four organizations working to transform the public education system of the state of Punjab and improve educational standards against global benchmarks, impacting 2.3 million students across 19,000 government schools in Punjab.</li>



<li>Tamarack Institute (Canada), co-led by Liz Weaver and Danya Pastuszek, Co-CEOs&nbsp;– develops and supports collaborative strategies to fight poverty and solve major community issues mainly in Canada. The network has grown to more than 90 regional members, local non-profit or community associations, whose work impacts 22 million Canadians, equivalent to 58% of the country’s population.&nbsp;</li>



<li>WIEGO (Global), co-led by Sally Roever, International Coordinator (UK/US), Janhavi Dave, International Coordinator of HomeNet International (India), and Lorraine Sibanda, President of the Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Associations (Zimbabwe)&nbsp;– a global network dedicated to improving the working conditions, rights, protection, economic opportunities and voice of all the working poor, particularly women, in the informal economy.</li>
</ul>

Preparations Ahead of The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2023

Social Innovators of the Year 2023: Creating Opportunities for Youth in Rural Nigeria and Protecting the Amazon

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246297592-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422474" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246297592-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246297592-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246297592-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246297592-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246297592-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246297592-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Olena Zelenska, Ukraine&#8217;s first lady, delivers a special address on the opening day of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023. The annual Davos gathering of political leaders, top executives and celebrities runs from January 16 to 20. Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, 17 January 2023 – Olena Zelenska, the First Lady of Ukraine, today called for the restoration of international law and the UN Charter. Speaking at the Opening Plenary of the 53rd World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, she told world leaders “deep inside we believe there is no global problem that humankind cannot resolve”.   Zelenska asked the gathering: “What if the sum of our influence doesn’t outweigh the Russian aggression?” She went on to say: “Our combined influence is bigger than the weight of our combined problems. That is why it is all the more important right now to use this influence when Russia’s invasion threatens a large-scale collapse of the world as we know it.”   She asked participants to imagine what could happen if tanks are allowed to strike at nuclear power stations; what could happen to inflation or the cost of living if tens of millions of Ukrainians are forced to become migrants; to climate neutrality when the world can’t stop Russia from burning entire cities in Ukraine. “In other words, what if the sum of our influence doesn’t outweigh the Russian aggression?” she said.   Zelenska called on world leaders to support her husband Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s 10-point proposal to end the war. This includes an end to hostilities, restoration of Ukraine’s borders with Russia, release of all prisoners and deportees, as well as assurance of food and energy security and justice.   Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, welcoming participants to the Annual Meeting, emphasized the need for cooperation “to create more cohesive societies where people can thrive”. He said: “We believe we can do it – through innovation, human goodwill and ingenuity. We have the capacity to turn the challenges into opportunities.”   Alain Berset, President of the Swiss Confederation, also underlined the need for a renewed global partnership on the transnational, civilizational challenges of climate change, pandemic, war and nuclear proliferation. He described the Annual Meeting as a place of “optimism, of can-do spirit”.   Ascribing the worldwide rise of populism to inequity, Berset said leaders, including at past Annual Meetings, have given more thought to efficiency and prosperity than to social fairness – within and between countries – causing already fragile states to weaken further. “First, by climate change and the pandemic, and then by the war in Ukraine,” he said.     Yet, as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine have made clear, the problems experienced by fragile states inevitably affect countries near and far. “In the form of migration, corruption, terrorism,” Berset said, adding: “We must do all we can to support fragile states – otherwise they risk becoming failed states.”   About the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 The World Economic Forum <a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">Annual Meeting 2023</a> convenes the world’s foremost leaders under the theme Cooperation in a Fragmented World. It calls on world leaders to address immediate economic, energy and food crises while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient world. For further information, please click <a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">here</a>.

Opening Day of The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2023

Ukrainian First Lady Joins Swiss President in Opening Plenary of World Economic Forum Annual Meeting

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272339-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422411" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272339-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272339-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272339-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272339-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272339-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272339-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A frost-covered logo for the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023. The annual Davos gathering of political leaders, top executives and celebrities runs from January 16 to 20. Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, 17 January 2023&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/">World Economic Forum</a>, in partnership with Accenture and Microsoft, today unveiled at its Annual Meeting 2023 a working prototype of its Global Collaboration Village, a purpose-driven metaverse where organizations can convene to learn about, create solutions for, and take action on the world’s most pressing challenges. With partners from&nbsp;<a href="https://weforum.ent.box.com/s/5nx27pbkb5uslbr3slcr80mvlh4xbwob">&nbsp;80 leading organizations</a>&nbsp;helping to shape the village’s development, participants from around the world joined the Forum in its first-ever interactive, multilateral session in the metaverse. “With the Global Collaboration Village, we are creating the first public purpose-oriented application of the metaverse technology, building a true global village in the virtual space. Supported by a unique range of partners from the public and private sectors, the Village will use the frontier capabilities of the metaverse to find solutions for addressing the big issues of our time in a more open, inclusive and sustained way,” said Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum. Julie Sweet, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Accenture, added: “The metaverse will profoundly change every part of every business, bridging our physical and digital worlds, and over time will enable companies to create innovative new consumer products and services, transform their manufacturing and operations, and reimagine the way we collaborate and work.” Brad Smith, Vice-Chair and President, Microsoft Corporation, said, “We believe the metaverse has the potential to fundamentally change the way we communicate and collaborate, overcoming limitations of the physical world to deliver enhanced connections for everyone. The Global Collaboration Village, powered by Microsoft Mesh, is a prime example of how we can use metaverse technology to bring people and communities together in new ways.” About the Global Collaboration Village The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/global-collaboration-village">Global Collaboration Village</a>&nbsp;harnesses the power of the metaverse to create co-presence and connection for a more diverse and physically dispersed audience. Building on the proof of concept introduced in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/press/2022/05/world-economic-forum-unveils-virtual-global-collaboration-village-as-the-future-of-strong-public-private-cooperation?linkId=100000126739920">May 2022</a>, this innovative project,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/?p=268984">built on the mixed reality platform Microsoft Mesh</a>, includes a set of initial immersive spaces that can be accessed by a VR headset or laptop device. These include:



<ul>
<li>A town hall: The Forum’s “Virtual Congress Centre” for future sessions or meetings, such as plenaries, workshops and bilaterals.</li>



<li>Collaborative centres: Virtual collaboration spaces for immersive storytelling and the Forum’s thought leadership, intended to inspire collaboration, experiential learning and real-world impact on global issues. For example, in a&nbsp;virtual ocean hub,&nbsp;participants can dive into the ocean’s depths and explore why and how marine ecosystems must be protected to preserve both life on land and in water.</li>



<li>Stakeholder campuses: Forum Partners can shape their presence, convene their stakeholders and partner with others to innovate and find solutions to global challenges.</li>
</ul>



Over the next year, the Forum will invite organizations to build in these immersive spaces to further bolster learning, collaboration and partnership. The initiative’s aim to strengthen and re-energize international cooperation is guided by four principles: global cooperation toward shared solutions; interactive immersion to foster better understanding; broad participation enabled by inclusive discussions; and individual and collective action as a catalyst for maximum impact. About the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 The World Economic Forum&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">Annual Meeting 2023&nbsp;</a>will convene the world’s foremost leaders under the theme Cooperation in a Fragmented World. Find out more about the Annual Meeting 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">here</a>.

World Economic Forum Establishes Purpose-driven Metaverse to Tackle World’s Most Pressing Challenges

Today, the World Climate Foundation is proud to announce our 2023 roadmaps for climate, biodiversity and health &#8211; From Davos to Dubai. This announcement follows our participation in&nbsp;Giving Nature a Seat at the Table&nbsp;at the ICEHouse&nbsp;and several other exciting engagements&nbsp;during the week in Davos.



Ahead of this week’s annual meetings in Davos, World Economic Forum released the Global Risks Report, highlighting the most serious environmental threats we could face in the next decade. In light of these risks, the World Climate Foundation continues its efforts to address the biggest challenges of our time. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="366" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/856c464c-d9e3-6c42-330d-19235dfe6c54-820x366.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422467" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/856c464c-d9e3-6c42-330d-19235dfe6c54-820x366.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/856c464c-d9e3-6c42-330d-19235dfe6c54-300x134.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/856c464c-d9e3-6c42-330d-19235dfe6c54-160x71.jpg 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/856c464c-d9e3-6c42-330d-19235dfe6c54-768x343.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/856c464c-d9e3-6c42-330d-19235dfe6c54.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Setting the Global Agenda for 2023 



2022 delivered a lot of turning points, but also truly emphasised, that there is no time to waste. Now, it’s time for real progress.



2030 Transition Targets &amp; a Net-Zero World by 2050&nbsp; Along with the global climate community and as a member of the Marrakech Partnership, we are getting ready for COP28 in Dubai. This will be an important step on the world’s path to implementing the Paris Agreement. We will build on the past years’ success in facilitating climate finance. As a proud partner of the Climate Investment Coalition, we supported the&nbsp;<a href="https://wclimate.us16.list-manage.com/track/click?u=66a416ac22573d7548b3e2305&amp;id=eea5e86fb2&amp;e=75d87a81ed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US$130 billion total collective commitment at COP26</a>&nbsp;towards effective climate solution investments by 2030. This year, we will continue the work through&nbsp;<a href="https://wclimate.us16.list-manage.com/track/click?u=66a416ac22573d7548b3e2305&amp;id=949dc0edaa&amp;e=75d87a81ed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Climate Network</a>, fostering public-private partnerships, climate and nature investments to achieve the transition to a net-zero economy through year-round and alongside pivotal climate events.&nbsp;



Achieving a Nature-Positive Future The coming year will also be crucial to show how the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework will be implemented in the years to come. Last year&nbsp;wrapped up on a high note with the adoption of the new framework at the UNCBD COP15,&nbsp;but now the work continues. Through World Biodiversity Summit and&nbsp;<a href="https://wclimate.us16.list-manage.com/track/click?u=66a416ac22573d7548b3e2305&amp;id=8bfea31dcd&amp;e=75d87a81ed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Biodiversity Network</a>, we will convene multi-sector&nbsp;stakeholders and decision makers to highlight best practices and&nbsp;scalable demonstration projects to achieve the implementation of the new Framework.



Building Resilient Systems for Health This will also be the year of WHO’s pandemic treaty. COVID-19 showed how vulnerable the world can be when facing global health crises. It is projected that more possible global health threats are on the horizon, exacerbated by climate change and increased stress on ecosystems. As&nbsp;a response to this, we are launching World Resilience Summit and&nbsp;<a href="https://wclimate.us16.list-manage.com/track/click?u=66a416ac22573d7548b3e2305&amp;id=2be07fcdd0&amp;e=75d87a81ed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Network</a>&nbsp;to support with establishing public-private partnerships and plans&nbsp;of action to find solutions to prevent future pandemics.

856c464c-d9e3-6c42-330d-19235dfe6c54

From Davos to Dubai – Our 2023 Roadmaps Towards a Net-Zero, Nature-Positive & Healthy Future

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246262502-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422462" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246262502-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246262502-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246262502-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246262502-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246262502-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246262502-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">DAVOS, SWITZERLAND &#8211; JANUARY 15: The WEF annual meeting to be held from January 16 to 20 in Davos, Switzerland on January 15, 2023. Under the theme of &#8220;Cooperation in a Fragmented World,&#8221; top figures shaping global politics and the business world will attend this weekâs 53rd annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland. The meeting, which starts Monday, will bring together more than 2,700 leaders from 130 countries including 50 heads of state or government, as multiple crises deepen divisions and fragment the geopolitical landscape. (Photo by Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, 17 January 2023 – Adoption of connected devices during the pandemic <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/ch/en/pages/risk/articles/impact-covid-cybersecurity.html">led to a dramatic increase in cyberattacks</a>. According to a new report launched today at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023, if left unchecked, the cost of cyberattacks will continue to rise, threatening a <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/10/11/imf-cuts-global-growth-forecast-for-2023-warns-worst-is-yet-to-come.html">fragile global economy</a>.   The report, The State of the Connected World 2023 edition, a collaboration of the World Economic Forum with the <a href="https://weforum.org/connectedworld">Council on the Connected World</a>, says the immediate threats can be mitigated through robust security protocols and governance through public-private cooperation.   The State of the Connected World is the only global report that tracks and quantifies governance gaps for the universe of connected devices, known as the internet of things (IoT). The report surveyed 270 experts around the world to understand the state of play and establish clear priorities for technology governance.    “At a time when the global economy is fragile, we have the necessary tools to reduce at least one of the major threats to the global economy – cyberattacks,” said Jeff Merritt, Head of Urban Transformation, World Economic Forum. “The State of the Connected World report is a call to action for protecting against cybercrimes, which would also improve individual security and protect small and medium-sized business, transit systems, utilities – everything that relies on connected devices.”   “Our increasingly connected existence brings with it vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors,” said Akshay Joshi, Head of Industry and Partnerships, Centre for Cybersecurity, World Economic Forum. “Despite calls for embedding cybersecurity by design, the low level of confidence in the security of connected devices expressed by experts in this report is a testament to the fact that we still have a long way to go in terms of realizing trust in the technology we use.”   The report calls for increased consumer education through digital literacy campaigns, standardization practices of cybersecurity measures, prioritizing security by design and default (as opposed to reacting after the fact) and developing more agile policies to better address the quick-changing landscape of cybersecurity.   &#8220;We find ourselves at an inflection point this year with a number of global forces putting downward pressure on the economy,” said Madeline Carr, Professor of Global Politics and Cyber Security, Department of Computer Science, University College London. “It is essential that cybersecurity challenges are not left unchecked to further exacerbate this but are taken seriously as an integrated element of a thriving global economy.&#8221;   What other experts are saying:   “Open standards in technology have always led to greater innovation and greater consumer confidence. This year’s report from the Forum really emphasizes the importance of that direction. We’re very pleased to see the focus on privacy and security as a key priority. Solving for these ensures the greatest adoption of IoT, and the greatest likelihood of landing on valuable solutions for consumers in the ever-growing connected world.” Tobin Richardson, President and CEO, Connectivity Standards Alliance   “Planned spending on a security programme costs less than unplanned spending by 10 to 100 times, so it really makes sense now to evaluate and redouble your efforts to attain and maintain a mature programme. The year 2023 is predicted to deliver a perfect storm – from expected challenging economic conditions, ransomware up over 30% from last year, cyber insurance rates dramatically rising, coverage lowering, a severe skill and staff shortage, massive growth in vulnerable IoT connected devices and security products becoming the breach vector. Now is the time to redouble your focus on your security posture.” Peter Nicoletti, Field Chief Information Security Officer of the Americas, Check Point Software Technologies   “At Schneider Electric, we envision a fully connected, net-zero world which is more electrified, digitized and sustainable for future generations. To realize this future, businesses, organizations and governments must work together to address challenges such as cybersecurity, open standards and accessibility. I’m proud of our work with these stakeholders and the World Economic Forum and commit to continued vigilance to make the needed progress.”  Scott Harden, Chief Technology Officer, Innovation, Schneider Electric   “As the world gets more connected, complex and at times unpredictable, it is critical to drive and govern the change in a way that we not only address and mitigate risks but also emphasize the positive impact that connected technology brings.”  Anton Kotov, Chief Digital and Strategy Officer, ABB Electrification, ABB   “The ongoing advancement of emerging technologies highlights the importance of establishing strong governance to ensure safe and secure use of the technology. Security, privacy, trust and interoperability among IoT devices are serious issues that need to be addressed to accelerate IoT adoption and embrace a connected world. This can be achieved through collective action from the international community and by establishment of public-private partnerships. The 2023 report on the state of the connected world highlights the current gaps in governance and paves the path to address the associated risks for the benefit of humankind.”  Mariam Nouh, Vice-President of Economies of the Future Sector, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)   “In order to ensure that connected devices and related technologies are accessible and beneficial for all members of society, adaptive and sustainable governance is needed for multistakeholders to expand the boundaries of their respective scope of works, to share risk and co-invest in the digital infrastructure together.” Fanyu Lin, CEO, Fluxus   About the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 The World Economic Forum <a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">Annual Meeting 2023</a> convenes the world’s foremost leaders under the theme Cooperation in a Fragmented World. It calls on world leaders to address immediate economic, energy and food crises while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient world. For further information, please click <a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">here</a>.

World Economic Forum

Unchecked Cyberattacks ‘Are Growing Threat to Fragile Global Economy’

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246271238-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422455" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246271238-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246271238-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246271238-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246271238-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246271238-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246271238-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The logo the World Economic Forum (WEF) inside the Congress Centre in Davos, Switzerland, on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023. The annual Davos gathering of political leaders, top executives and celebrities runs from January 16 to 20. Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, 17 January 2023&nbsp;– The World Economic Forum, supported by more than 45 partners today launched the Giving to Amplify Earth Action (GAEA), a global initiative to fund and grow new and existing public, private and philanthropic partnerships (PPPPs) to help unlock the $3 trillion of financing needed each year to reach net zero, reverse nature loss and restore biodiversity by 2050. With the energy and cost of living crises, the ambition of steering the planet towards a 1.5-degree Celsius warming pathway hangs in the balance. Meanwhile, the recent agreement at the UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP15) in Montreal to conserve 30% of all earth and sea looks bold but fragile in the face of a rising biodiversity crisis. Current funding is slow and inadequate, and a new approach is needed to get capital flowing. Philanthropic giving can address this, with unique qualities not found in other financing: it is nimble, more tolerant of risks and is driven by values and long-term outcomes rather than quarterly returns. “We are at a tipping point in our efforts to put the planet back on track to meet our climate ambitions. To reach the speed and scale required to heal the Earth’s systems, we need to unlock not only private capital and government funds, but also the philanthropy sector as a truly catalytic force to achieve the necessary acceleration,”&nbsp;said Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman, World Economic Forum. GAEA’s growing body of philanthropic partners includes: Active Philanthropy, the African Climate Foundation, André Hoffmann Family Office, the Arab Foundations Forum, Bezos Earth Fund, BMW Foundation, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, the Clean Air Fund, Climate Leadership Initiative, ClimateWorks Foundation, Eleven Eleven Foundation, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Growald Climate Fund, IKEA Foundation, Laudes Foundation, Noa’s Ark Foundation, Open Society Foundations, the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, Pearl Initiative, Philanthropy Asia Alliance (by Temasek Trust), Philea, The Rockefeller Foundation, Trottier Family Foundation, United Nations Foundation, the Wellcome Trust, WINGS, Workday Foundation. Individuals, academic institutions, companies and public sector organizations supporting the initiative include: Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, Capital for Climate, Carbon Direct, Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University, Centre for Strategic Philanthropy at the University of Cambridge, Climate-KIC, Crescent Enterprises, Government of Egypt, HCLTech through their chairperson Roshni Nadar Malhotra, McKinsey Sustainability, Ocean14, Prince Maximilian von und zu Liechtenstein &#8211; Chairman of the Board LGT Group, Salesforce, Singapore University for Social Sciences, Stanford University Center for Ocean Solutions, Strategic Philanthropy Initiative at NYU Abu Dhabi, UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre, We Mean Business Coalition, World Association of PPP Units &amp; PPP Professionals.&nbsp; Philanthropic financing for climate mitigation has risen in recent years, but still represents less than 2% of total philanthropic giving, estimated at $810 billion in 2021. Greater philanthropic funding for climate and nature will support, not detract from, existing social priorities. As recently noted by Rajiv Shah, President, The Rockefeller Foundation: “Climate change poses a singular threat to humanity … we must directly confront climate change, even as we redouble efforts in our traditional program areas: health, power, food, and equity.” Over the next 12 months, supported by McKinsey Sustainability as a knowledge partner, GAEA will work with founding members to build momentum around three clear objectives:



<ul>
<li>Convene leaders from the public, private and philanthropic sectors to identify and target climate and nature solutions where they are best positioned to play a catalytic role&nbsp;</li>



<li>Pilot and refine funding models that can support PPPP interventions&nbsp;</li>



<li>Scale up and replicate successful approaches to new sectors, regions and actors</li>
</ul>



GAEA will build on existing examples of success. For example, the Clean Cooling Collaborative, founded with the help of an initial $10 million of philanthropic funding in 2016, has mobilized more than $600 million in public and private finance to improve equitable access to low-carbon cooling and support 4.2 gigatons of avoided CO2&nbsp;emissions by 2050. Similarly, the Government of the Seychelles has leveraged philanthropic funding, public loan guarantees and private investment to raise $15 million through a blue bond and convert $22 million of government debt into conservation funding to protect 13 marine areas, covering an area larger than Germany. Wendy Abrams, Chief Executive Officer, Eleven Eleven Foundation, said: “We need more companies, family offices, individuals and the new generation of philanthropists to get involved in the climate and nature conversation. If we do not solve this together, there will be nothing to pass on to the next generation. GAEA can be a good platform to get all the right stakeholders and amplify action at scale.” Rania Al-Mashat, Minister for International Cooperation, Government of Egypt, said: “This call to action is extremely timely, as it builds on the directions set during COP 27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, ‘the COP of implementation’ under the Egyptian presidency. We need more philanthropies to join us at the table and help scale up multilateral development bank finance to unlock private investments to accelerate the green transition. Egypt will work closely with the World Economic Forum to build effective and impactful philanthropic public private partnerships, and promote the role of the prominent ‘P’ – Philanthropy.” Per Heggenes, Chief Executive Officer, IKEA Foundation, said: “We are proud to support the launch of the GAEA initiative. The global figure of philanthropic capital for climate mitigation currently stands under 2% – and that is just not acceptable. But this is also a massive opportunity to leverage philanthropic giving for climate action. Philanthropies can play a unique role in encouraging urgent, radical and unprecedented collaboration between the public and private sectors. It’s only by working together at scale that we can unlock the investment required to achieve our ambitious climate goals and protect the planet.” Badr Jafar, Chief Executive Officer, Crescent Enterprises, said: “There is a historic opportunity to harness the full potential of philanthropic organizations, family offices and other innovative capital players, in unity with government and business to address our climate and nature goals. COP28 in the UAE will raise the bar in terms of ambition and the creation of a global architecture for all capital actors to act together at speed and at scale. The World Economic Forum and GAEA is a powerful platform and amplifier to enhance these efforts.” Helen Mountford, Chief Executive Officer, ClimateWorks, said: “By unleashing the small but mighty ‘P’ of philanthropy, we can create truly catalytic partnerships that unlock ambitious and collaborative public, private and philanthropic action to improve people’s lives.” Lim Seok Hui, Chief Executive Officer, Philanthropy Asia Alliance (by Temasek Trust), said: “Philanthropy Asia Alliance will continue to amplify its impact by supporting initiatives such as GAEA to pool our collective resources and expertise, and translate ideas into action. GAEA’s first Asia-focused key deliverable that will be launched later this year by PAA in partnership with the World Economic Forum, is a climate philanthropy report on multi-stakeholder partnerships as a force to combat complex climate challenges.” Bob Sternfels, Chief Executive Officer, McKinsey &amp; Company, said: “We are very excited to support GAEA’s aim to better connect philanthropic capital with public and private sector efforts to strengthen climate and nature solutions. Our collective hope is to accelerate thinking and action towards tipping points in these arenas, and to assure economic growth is increasingly sustainable and inclusive.”



About the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 The World Economic Forum&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">Annual Meeting 2023</a>&nbsp;will convene the world’s foremost leaders under the theme Cooperation in a Fragmented World.

New Initiative to Help Unlock $3 Trillion Needed a Year for Climate and Nature

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422427" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246279791-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The logo the World Economic Forum (WEF) on a window at the Congress Center in Davos, Switzerland, on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023. The annual Davos gathering of political leaders, top executives and celebrities runs from January 16 to 20. Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Geneva, Switzerland, 16 January 2023&nbsp;– A dramatic rise in the frequency and severity of wildfires is undermining efforts to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in combating climate change. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), 30% of the world’s population is exposed to deadly heatwaves on more than 20 days a year. The World Economic Forum launched the FireAId initiative to&nbsp;address the wildfire crisis&nbsp;in January 2022.&nbsp;Successfully piloted by Koç Holding in the South Aegean and West Mediterranean region of Türkiye in 2022,&nbsp;this wildfire risk mapping and logistic planning project improved wildfire prediction by combining static and meteorological datasets and reduced both response time and risk to firefighters. Due to its success,&nbsp;the approach is being scaled for wider use.&nbsp; “During this difficult period of growing fire seasons and climate change, we are committed to continuing and strengthening this global engagement. We hope this report will inspire you to join these efforts, which can address the key drivers of catastrophic fires, increase the pace and scale of forest management and improve the resilience of increasingly threatened communities globally,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum. This report urges the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in predicting and directing responses to wildfires and managing forests. It follows the launch of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/reports/global-risks-report-2023/">Global Risks Report 2023</a>, which highlights failure to mitigate and adapt to climate change, natural disasters and extreme weather events, and biodiversity loss and environmental degradation among the top risks faced by societies.&nbsp; Wildfires have occurred naturally for millions of years and are integral to the maintenance of healthy forests. Mediterranean forests burn down entirely once every 50 years as part of their natural cycle, but climate change is making wildfires more frequent, larger and more devastating. In the US, there have been around 1.5 million wildfires since 2000, burning an average 7 million acres annually – more than double the 3.3 million acres destroyed by wildfires each year in the 1990s. California wildfires in 2020 alone burned more than 4 million acres and released almost twice the tonnage of greenhouse gases as the total CO2&nbsp;reductions achieved over 18 years since 2003 – an estimated 127 million tonnes CO2&nbsp;equivalent released compared to 65 million tonnes of reductions. Global wildfires in 2021 released an estimated total of 6,450 megatonnes of CO2&nbsp;– 148% more than total European Union fossil fuel emissions in 2020, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/CopernicusECMWF">@CopernicusECMWF</a>, the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service. In South Africa, the February 2021 wildfire near Cape Town burned more than 13,000 hectares and threatened the city outskirts, torching university buildings. Wildfires in Australia in 2019 and 2020 killed or displaced more than 3 billion animals. Forest lands provide the majority of freshwater supplies – in the US, 80% of the total. But wildfires severely affect water quality in rivers, reservoirs and streams. Ash settles on water surfaces, while burned landscapes may erode more quickly, increasing the accumulation of sediment in water. After a wildfire, the soil may have reduced capacity to absorb and store water, increasing the likelihood of flooding. Managing and preventing wildfires is a vital element of efforts to control climate change and protect habitats, lives and livelihoods. AI and ML show immense potential for developing a response to this crisis. Advances in AI may be applied to managing forests and fighting wildfires:



<ul>
<li>The dream of producing autonomous vehicles has driven continuous refinements in computer vision AI, which can be applied to the science of wildfire prediction</li>



<li>Developments in natural language processing (NLP) and natural language generation (NLG) have improved computers’ capacity to make predictions</li>
</ul>



Advances in data-collection methods support firefighting and wildfire risk management:



<ul>
<li>Sensors with inbuilt AI can collect acoustic information or operate as smoke detectors in forests and alert authorities within the first hour of a wildfire starting</li>



<li>Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be flown over fires to provide live images and help firefighters plan their response</li>
</ul>



Two programmes are under development in the US to provide near-live fire information:



<ul>
<li>Google uses geostationary satellites to produce near real-time maps</li>



<li>NASA’s Fire Information for Resource Management (FIRMS) uses low-orbit satellites and software developed by the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Space Science and Engineering Center (SSEC) to provide live fire data with a lag of just 60 seconds between Earth observation and wildfire detection</li>
</ul>



The FireAId initiative was piloted with Koç Holding in Türkiye in the wake of the worst wildfires ever recorded in the country in July–August 2021. A total of 139,503 hectares burned in these wildfires. Koç Holding, a pioneer of digitalization in the Turkish private sector, developed the pilot programme in collaboration with the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. It focused on the South Aegean and West Mediterranean parts of Türkiye, covering 44,000km2. One quarter of the country’s wildfires have broken out in that region, corresponding to 75% of total burned area in 2010–2021. The project was conducted in two phases:



<ol>
<li>Dynamic and static datasets were used to create a risk map, with risks categorized under two types – ignition (probability of a wildfire starting) and severity</li>



<li>The risk map was used to create a model for allocating resources most efficiently after a wildfire started</li>
</ol>



The project successfully used Koç Holding’s advanced data analytics capacity to predict wildfires and enable more efficient use of existing firefighting resources. It analysed more than 400 variables using its AI-based model and the results encouraged Koç Holdings to develop and scale the model for use in all regions of Türkiye.



&#8220;We are willing to work with all interested stakeholders, international organizations and especially countries that are vulnerable to wildfires. In terms of scaling, we want to underline that this is a non-commercial product. We can share our algorithms and source codes for further improvements. We have already started to work on scaling the pilot to cover all regions in Turkey as the next step. In parallel, we are eager to work with data providers and piloting partners across the world. We must all unite in an effort to save our forests, our common future, our world, ”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Levent Çakıroğlu Chief Executive Officer of Koç Holding.



Deloitte, which joined the FireAId initiative in June 2022, is developing forecasting models and a scenario engine, together with an intuitive user interface (a dynamic map that users can pan and zoom, with key statistics and controls). It is looking to use its technology partnership with NVIDIA, developers of the Earth-2 digital model of the planet, to create a digital twin simulation for firefighters, allowing them to plot a fire’s likely progress and the effectiveness of proposed responses. Though much has been accomplished, these remain works in progress and are being rigorously tested. “Wildfires represent a growing environmental problem. Intervention measures are more effective the earlier they are taken – saving lives, livelihoods, habitats, as well as the cost of the measures themselves.&nbsp;While a significant modelling challenge, better prediction of fire outbreak and spread – using technologies such as AI, cloud and digital twins – has the potential to upgrade resource planning and save firefighters valuable time,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;David Thogmartin, Director of AI and Data Analytics at Deloitte Risk Advisory and AI and Machine Learning Fellow at the World Economic Forum In firefighting every second counts – it is critical to respond quickly and effectively. But many firefighters are hampered by ageing equipment and inadequate budgets. The report emphasizes that government ministries must respond to the need for funding to boost budgets, modernize departments and upgrade equipment. In project workshops, experts emphasized the need for international cooperation to develop this initiative. In particular, they stressed the need to:



<ul>
<li>Share compatible and relevant data, which is critical for the development of AI fire-prediction models</li>



<li>Supplement historical data with new sources that provide real-time information</li>



<li>Develop existing methods of using controlled burns to prevent, manage and limit wildfires – “fighting fire with fire”</li>
</ul>



The FireAId initiative provides inspiration for future development teams and a focus for global engagement among climate technology leaders in industry and government. Their cooperation should focus on developing the use of AI and ML in wildfire risk management and in mitigating other climate risks to protect natural environments, populations and economic prosperity. The success of the FireAId pilot provides hope. Progress is under way – existing data and past studies of wildfire dynamics lay a solid foundation for future development. “With the wildfire risk mapping and logistic planning project, in which Koç Holding’s advanced analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities and our know-how have combined, we have incorporated new technological advancements into our organization. Prior to this, only meteorological variables were used in risk mapping, but as of now static and meteorological datasets are combined. In addition, response time is one of the critical metrics in firefighting. The logistic planning part of the project enables us to reduce response time with less risk. “We have been working on extending our pilot [throughout] Türkiye. We believe that extending FireAId to other fire-prone countries with the support of the World Economic Forum will help the fight against wildfires,”&nbsp;saidBekir Karacabey, General Manager at the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

Successful Pilot Shows How Artificial Intelligence Can Fight Wildfires

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272359-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422421" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272359-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272359-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272359-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272359-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272359-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1246272359-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The logo the World Economic Forum (WEF) inside the Congress Centre in Davos, Switzerland, on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023. The annual Davos gathering of political leaders, top executives and celebrities runs from January 16 to 20. Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Davos, Switzerland, 16 January 2023&nbsp;– A new report launched today at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 shows how “early mover” countries can accelerate the food systems transformation. The report,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/reports/food-nature-and-health-transitions-repeatable-country-models">Food, Nature and Health Transitions – Repeatable Country Models</a>, offers insights into the actions and investments that can accelerate a country’s transition towards food systems that deliver a stronger economy, better livelihoods for a more inclusive set of people, greater nutritional security and improved health, while causing a lower impact on the climate and nature.



“Transforming food systems provide healthy and nutritious diets and dignified jobs for farmers and producers. This report shows how economic development with environment protection supports communities in climate adaption and mitigation efforts,” said Gim Huay Neo, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum’s Centre for Nature and Climate.



The report, written in collaboration with Bain &amp; Company, presents “repeatable models” from seven “early mover” countries in Africa, Asia, the Americas and Europe whose performance has been comparatively strong and whose examples and lessons are widely relevant. Their stories of transformation identify common, repeatable elements, including the most critical actions and investments for driving change and how they should be coordinated.



“Depending on the country context, different pathways could be adopted to transform our agrifood systems for improved food security and nutrition and assuring sustainability,” said Maximo Torero Cullen, Chief Economist at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). “Scaling up climate resilience and strengthening our food environment to promote healthy diets&nbsp;are two key interventions with positive impacts on food security,&nbsp;nature and health.” “When food fails, everything fails,” added Geraldine Matchett, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Royal DSM, and Co-Chair of the CEO Alliance on Food, Nature and Health. “We must work to transform our food systems to be resilient, sustainable and healthy.” A number of countries, including Ghana, India and Viet Nam, have been able to evolve their food systems to improve a broader set of outcomes by unlocking the potential of small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly those that are farmer-allied and operating in local food chains. Countries can also use innovation to improve productivity, sustainability and nutritional outcomes, as demonstrated in Algeria, which has improved food security in the face of significant constraints on water availability, while Viet Nam has sustainably intensified its rice production. Farmers are more likely to adopt new practices if the economics work in their favour, according to the report, but making this happen requires action from many stakeholders. Examples in Canada and New Zealand illustrate how to scale adoption of nature-positive and climate-smart food production, particularly focusing on the case for an economic advantage for producers. Each of the “early mover” country profiles in the report show how multiple actors and concurrent levers, across sectors, interact and coordinate to enable large-scale transformation over time. Collectively, they demonstrate the potential for these levers – if applied in tandem and with greater urgency – to accelerate country-led food systems transformation. About the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 The World Economic Forum&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">Annual Meeting 2023</a>&nbsp;convenes the world’s foremost leaders under the theme&nbsp;Cooperation in a Fragmented World. It calls on world leaders to address immediate economic, energy and food crises while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient world. For further information, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">here</a>.



“Depending on the country context, different pathways could be adopted to transform our agrifood systems for improved food security and nutrition and assuring sustainability,” said Maximo Torero Cullen, Chief Economist at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). “Scaling up climate resilience and strengthening our food environment to promote healthy diets&nbsp;are two key interventions with positive impacts on food security,&nbsp;nature and health.” “When food fails, everything fails,” added Geraldine Matchett, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Royal DSM, and Co-Chair of the CEO Alliance on Food, Nature and Health. “We must work to transform our food systems to be resilient, sustainable and healthy.” A number of countries, including Ghana, India and Viet Nam, have been able to evolve their food systems to improve a broader set of outcomes by unlocking the potential of small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly those that are farmer-allied and operating in local food chains. Countries can also use innovation to improve productivity, sustainability and nutritional outcomes, as demonstrated in Algeria, which has improved food security in the face of significant constraints on water availability, while Viet Nam has sustainably intensified its rice production. Farmers are more likely to adopt new practices if the economics work in their favour, according to the report, but making this happen requires action from many stakeholders. Examples in Canada and New Zealand illustrate how to scale adoption of nature-positive and climate-smart food production, particularly focusing on the case for an economic advantage for producers. Each of the “early mover” country profiles in the report show how multiple actors and concurrent levers, across sectors, interact and coordinate to enable large-scale transformation over time. Collectively, they demonstrate the potential for these levers – if applied in tandem and with greater urgency – to accelerate country-led food systems transformation. About the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 The World Economic Forum&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">Annual Meeting 2023</a>&nbsp;convenes the world’s foremost leaders under the theme&nbsp;Cooperation in a Fragmented World. It calls on world leaders to address immediate economic, energy and food crises while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient world. For further information, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">here</a>.

Countries That Tackle Food Crisis Can Boost ‘Jobs, Health and Nature’ and Meet Net-Zero Goals

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Chido-Munyati-Panel-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422404" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Chido-Munyati-Panel-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Chido-Munyati-Panel-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Chido-Munyati-Panel-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Chido-Munyati-Panel-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Chido-Munyati-Panel-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Chido-Munyati-Panel-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chido Munyati, Head of Regional Agenda, Africa, World Economic Forum</figcaption></figure>



By Chido Munyati, Head of Regional Agenda, Africa, World Economic Forum, and Landry Signé, Executive Director and Professor, Thunderbird School of Global Management in Washington, DC; Senior Fellow, The Brookings Institution; Co-Chair, World Economic Forum Regional Action Group for Africa.



At a time of multiple, overlapping global challenges – from climate change to energy shocks to rising inflation and a cost-of-living crisis – the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers promise not only for the region but for the world.



The AfCFTA, established in 2018, will create the world’s largest free trade area, bringing transformative change and tremendous opportunity to African economies and business environments. Its adoption and implementation will accelerate intra-African trade and develop regional and local value chains, creating new business dynamics that offer investors access to a population of 1.7 billion people with combined business and consumer spending reaching $6.7 billion by <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/book/unlocking-africas-business-potential/">2030</a>.



Global businesses have an important role to play in accelerating the implementation of the AfCFTA, according to a new report from the World Economic Forum, in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat and Forum partners. The report outlines high-potential sectors, initiatives to support business and investment, operational tools to facilitate the AfCFTA, and illustrative examples from successful businesses in Africa to guide businesses in successfully entering and expanding in this area. &nbsp;



The AfCFTA Secretariat selected four key sectors that represent high-potential opportunities for companies looking to invest in Africa: the automotive industry, agriculture and agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, and transportation and logistics. These four sectors are expected to see rapid acceleration in production and trade volumes under the AfCFTA, given that they have a high potential to meet local demand with local production. Until now, local demand for these goods and services is currently being met through relatively high-cost imports, despite the region’s growing and lower cost production capabilities.



While the AfCFTA offers business opportunities in each of these four sectors, companies will also need to understand how the changing environments under the trade agreement will affect their strategies for success in the region. The World Economic Forum is actively working toward implementing trade and investment tools that are aligned with the negotiation process of the AfCFTA by identifying areas where public-private collaboration can help reduce barriers and facilitate investment from international firms.



For example, public-private collaboration centered around implementing AfCFTA trade-facilitating provisions can <a href="https://www.tradefacilitation.org/">facilitate</a> trade in goods, on-the-ground initiatives can address fragmented investment regulatory frameworks, and bringing together groups committed to 4IR technology, digital payments, and information exchanges can support digital trade. To improve the societal outcomes of trade, the Forum’s Inclusive Trade Initiative is uncovering best practices that can be shared with AfCFTA negotiators and businesses. And an <a href="https://www.weforum.org/reports/accelerating-decarbonization-through-trade-in-climate-goods-and-services">inventory of 25 key climate technologies</a> and with country-specific studies helps identify opportunities for trade to align with circular economy goals. &nbsp;&nbsp;



Companies can also look to five new operational tools as they adjust to the changing dynamics under the trade agreement.



The AfCFTA Guided Trade Initiative has facilitated the start of trade in eight countries for 96 products, providing support and guidance on customs clearing and while gathering information on how to make the process more efficient for the private sector.



The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System enables users to make near-instant payments in their local currency without needing to convert to a foreign currency or use a third-party institution.



The AfCFTA Adjustment Facility Fund is a combination of a base fund, general fund, and credit fund, that assists governments and the private sector in addressing short-term disruptions through financing, technical assistance, and grants and compensation funding.



The AfCFTA Private Engagement Strategy helps companies to better understand the overall continental strategy as well as the specific initiatives and policy recommendations in emerging sectors that the AfCFTA is prioritizing.



And the Rules of Origin Manual &amp; E-Tariff Book sets the guidelines for the rules and procedures for determining the origin status of goods and makes information on duty rates easily searchable and comparable.



In addition, analysis of on-the-ground experience from companies including Agility, AFC, Coca-Cola, DP World, Menzies, Novartis, OCP, UBA, Volkswagen, and Yara, has revealed three main strategies that have led to success in Africa and can provide invaluable lessons to companies planning to seize the opportunities opened by the trade agreement.



The first strategy is to form local partnerships with governments, local institutions, universities and others to create regional hubs and host R&amp;D at local universities. The second strategy is to leverage key trade accelerators such as investing in local infrastructure and logistics, with opportunities ranging from food storage to partnering with local organizations to move various parts of the value chain onto the continent. The third strategy is to form integrated ecosystems by developing end-to-end value chains around local resources, which de-risks projects and creates an environment where shared infrastructure can support multiple projects in different sectors.



The global private sector must be prepared for the changes in trade dynamics ahead on the continent to seize the opportunities that the AfCFTA brings, achieving business success while helping to usher in a new era of economic development.



This article is part of the <a href="https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023">World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting 2023</a>.

Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Rwanda Launch

A new era for global business and investment in Africa

Faced with rising demand for food by its growing population that is expected to cross the two-billion mark by 2050, amidst intensifying effects of climate change, Africa has no choice but to focus more on nature-friendly production.



This is the only sustainable way out for a continent that is already under intense pressure as it struggles to feed itself. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, Africa bears the heaviest malnutrition burden with an undernourishment prevalence rate of over 20%, compared to the global average of 9.9%.



With the food and nutrition insecurity projected to further worsen, production has to be significantly stepped up, urgently. Unfortunately, with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather conditions due to biting effects of climate change, this boost in production can no longer be oblivious of its impact on the environment that also afflicts food systems. Food systems are estimated to contribute about a third of greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change, with Africa particularly vulnerable. &nbsp;



Continuing with the traditional approaches, such as expanding cropland as a means of boosting production is no longer sustainable and risks serious consequences. Between 2003 and 2019, 75% of sub-Saharan Africa’s crop production growth came from the expansion of cropland, with only 25% coming from crop yield improvements. Such unsustainable patterns of production intensification have also compounded fragilities in Africa’s food systems.



On the other hand, the weighted average price of fertilizer has doubled between June 2021 and April 2022, putting a strain on farmers across the continent. The average application rate of mineral fertilizer in sub-Saharan Africa is 14 kilogrammes per hectare, which is at least 10 times lower than corresponding figures in South Asia, EU, South America, and East Asia. Limited availability and high prices of fertilizers has dampened prospects of the continent taking this route towards increasing productivity.



This leaves nature-positive production, and regenerative agriculture in particular, as a plausible option for the continent. It presents an opportunity to intensify production to address the current food crisis by sustainably boosting outputs to cater for growing consumption needs.



According to studies by the Africa Regenerative Agriculture Study Group, 2040 scenarios show that a 13% increase in yields from a regenerative agriculture scenario would translate into 62 million dry matter tonnes of additional crop production per year. This is in addition to potentially supporting 5 million full-time jobs by 2040, with over USD 70 billion of gross value being added per year.



Although many initiatives have been developed to promote nature-positive agriculture systems in Africa, smallholders have been slow to adopt the technological practices. Studies show that the certified land under organic agriculture in Africa is around 2.1 million hectares, which represents only 0.2% of the continent’s total agricultural area.



AGRA’s regenerative agriculture projects in Kakamega, Nandi and Vihiga counties of Kenya have seen about 4,451 hectares being put under sustainable land management practices, including conservation agriculture, agroforestry, soil and water conservation and integrated soil fertility management. However, despite the range of benefits from transitioning to regenerative and nature positive production bring clear, intrinsic barriers to the adoption of the practices by smallholder farmers still exist. This call for more efforts to bring more land under sustainable farming practices.



To effectively shift food systems to become more nature-positive, it depends largely on a conducive policy environment to deliver necessary incentives and de-risk the transition. This calls for a few key policy actions.



First, given that most regenerative practices involve permanent and long-term investments, it will be crucial to institute appropriate property rights and land tenure arrangements. This will not only provide the needed security to encourage investments, but also facilitate de-risking of the transition.



Secondly, we need to drive policy and regulatory reforms that level the playing field and incentivize regenerative agriculture. Current agricultural policies tend to disproportionately serve industrial agriculture over regenerative agriculture. Hence, we need to get the policy and institutional architecture right to support the needed transition.&nbsp;



The third imperative is focus on providing support for farmers during their beginning or transitioning years of regenerative farming. We need to invest more in decentralized and diverse food systems infrastructure, to create additional market and operational capacity for farmers pursuing regenerative farming. The technical resources offered through extension and public research institutions need to be improved to meet specific needs of farmers. National extension systems will also need to be appropriately resourced and equipped to provide tailored and specialist services to smallholder farmers to ease adoption hurdles.



Finally, we need to shape demand for food towards more sustainable diets. For instance, there should be mechanisms to support market development, raise consumer awareness and promote the consumption of products produced under regenerative farming systems.



This shift is necessary, since boosting productivity without a sustainability lens will continue to aggravate food systems challenges.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="661" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vine-Mutyasira-1-820x661.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422387" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vine-Mutyasira-1-820x661.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vine-Mutyasira-1-300x242.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vine-Mutyasira-1-112x90.jpg 112w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vine-Mutyasira-1-768x619.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vine-Mutyasira-1-1536x1239.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Vine-Mutyasira-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr Vine Mutyasira is Program Officer for Policy Quantitative Modelling and Data Analytics at AGRA.</figcaption></figure>

Vine-Mutyasira-1

Africa needs more nature-friendly food systems

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE-820x547.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-418642" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE-820x547.webp 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE-135x90.webp 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE.webp 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Africa’s abundant renewable energy sources could make it a global hub for producing low-carbon hydrogen
Image: Unsplash/Anastasia Palagutina</figcaption></figure>



Geneva, Switzerland, 12 January 2023&nbsp;– The current energy crisis is driving inflation, slowing economic growth and creating social turmoil. We cannot afford to compound this crisis by allowing our responses to derail the energy transition. Yet short-term backward steps, such as increasing production of electricity from coal or broad-based consumption subsidies, risk doing just that. &nbsp; A comprehensive reappraisal of energy systems is urgently needed, to prioritize solutions that simultaneously enhance energy security while accelerating the transition towards a just, low-carbon future. A new report,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/whitepapers/securing-the-energy-transition">Securing the Energy Transition</a>,&nbsp;published today by the World Economic Forum, proposes a comprehensive framework that provides a strategic blueprint to make security and resilience the backbone of a transitioing energy system, and 10 actions to align current interventions to address the energy crisis with long term energy transition goals. &nbsp; “The energy crisis has brought energy security to the forefront of political and corporate agendas and prompted the need to develop responses that are adapted to how the energy system has evolved and to where it needs to transition,” said Roberto Bocca, Head of Shaping the Future of Energy, Materials and Infrastructure, World Economic Forum.&nbsp;“What is now a global crisis is a real opportunity to steer a more direct course towards a secure, sustainable and affordable energy future for everyone. This requires radical collaboration and a pragmatic approach to confront the complexities of the energy transition with immediate actions.” &nbsp; &nbsp; Energy systems in transition face opportunities and risks from changing energy markets as well as from increasingly decentralized, digitalized, decarbonized and distributed energy supplies – which necessitates a re-evaluation of energy security in the emerging context. The report proposes a comprehensive framework for a secure energy system to guide countries and policy-makers to plan strategic actions, policies and regulations.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="268" height="272" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/6722ec3b-6ec3-5f1e-f8fc-ea1a4740cfe4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-422334" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/6722ec3b-6ec3-5f1e-f8fc-ea1a4740cfe4.png 268w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/6722ec3b-6ec3-5f1e-f8fc-ea1a4740cfe4-89x90.png 89w" sizes="(max-width: 268px) 100vw, 268px" /></figure>



The near-term consequences of the energy crisis require immediate interventions – but these responses offer a valuable opportunity to accelerate progress towards a future for energy that is both secure and sustainable. “The energy crisis impacts us all and the world cannot afford short-term fixes to the energy crisis which could increase future risks to both the climate and energy equity. The good news is that the crisis offers an opportunity for interventions that balance energy security with an effective low-carbon transition,” said Espen Mehlum, Head of Energy, Material and Infrastructure Program, World Economic Forum The report proposes 10 immediate actions organized under four key themes: Supply reinforcements



<ol>
<li>Prioritize supply from renewable energy and constrain fossil fuel reinforcements to committed emission reduction targets&nbsp;– the IEA recommends $5 of investment in renewables for every $1 spent on new fossil fuel production.</li>



<li>Advocate for a diversified energy and trade matrix&nbsp;– an over-concentration on a few energy suppliers was a key contributor to the current energy crisis.</li>



<li>Address methane leakage from hydrocarbon supply chains&nbsp;– the climate benefits of natural gas are no better than coal if more than 3.4% of it escapes before combustion, but some fields have fugitive emission rates of 6% or more.</li>
</ol>



Demand management



<ol>
<li>Maximize electrification and energy efficiency to alleviate and decarbonize demand&nbsp;– high gas prices in the near term will enhance the economics of investing in efficiencies and electrifying industries and home heating.</li>



<li>Nudge social behaviour towards responsible energy consumption&nbsp;– globally the top 10% of households consume roughly 20 times more energy than the bottom 10%, but targeted public information and incentives could encourage top-end consumers to become more efficient.</li>
</ol>



Fiscal measures and investments



<ol>
<li>Leverage excess profits from energy market to bridge clean energy investment gap&nbsp;– to reach net zero, investments in clean energy needs significant increase. Immediate deployment that can be achieved also through leveraging the extra profits – estimated in 4 trillions- that have been realised in some parts of the energy markets.</li>



<li>Target vulnerable consumers with fiscal measures, without interfering in market signals&nbsp;– government incentives and subsidies to improve energy affordability should avoid distorting market signals, be more targeted, and incentivise continued investment by private sector and efficient consumption.</li>



<li>Provide reliable signals to investors in energy supply and infrastructure&nbsp;– clear guidance is needed from policy-makers on the outlook for gas demand alongside acceleration of low-carbon sources.</li>
</ol>



Co-ordination and long-term strategy



<ol>
<li>Co-ordinate with regional peers to maximize efficiency and minimize costs –&nbsp;for example, joint procurement and co-ordinateed new LNG import facility installation &nbsp;to prevent overcapacity and stranded assets.</li>



<li>Revisit energy security strategies considering shifting technology and fuel landscape –&nbsp;this crisis provides an opportunity for countries to comprehensively redesign their approaches to energy security.</li>
</ol>



While governments are primarily responsible for ensuring their countries’ energy security, addressing this crisis in a sustainable manner will require exceptional levels of engagement from and collaboration between governments, companies, international organizations and individual consumers.

responsive_big_webp_g4HszNIBPcEQqWKXN36WnGfcOeIXBid9O1akAXmkSmE

Energy Crisis Offers Opportunity to Embrace New Solutions that Advance a Secure, Sustainable, and Inclusive Energy Transition

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="616" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/a-plant-sprouting-from-a-handful-of-coins-investm-2022-12-01-21-16-04-utc-820x616.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422289" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/a-plant-sprouting-from-a-handful-of-coins-investm-2022-12-01-21-16-04-utc-820x616.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/a-plant-sprouting-from-a-handful-of-coins-investm-2022-12-01-21-16-04-utc-300x225.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/a-plant-sprouting-from-a-handful-of-coins-investm-2022-12-01-21-16-04-utc-120x90.jpg 120w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/a-plant-sprouting-from-a-handful-of-coins-investm-2022-12-01-21-16-04-utc-768x577.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/a-plant-sprouting-from-a-handful-of-coins-investm-2022-12-01-21-16-04-utc-1536x1153.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/a-plant-sprouting-from-a-handful-of-coins-investm-2022-12-01-21-16-04-utc-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A plant sprouting from a handful of coins. Investment, finance, and accounting concept</figcaption></figure>



As the provider of food, nutrition, and jobs for millions, Africa’s food systems are a central pillar of livelihoods and GDPs across the continent. Yet, they are at the forefront of the global climate crisis.



Climate change has reduced productivity growth of African food systems by 34 per cent since 1961. Still, continued warming to 2C this century could cause crop yields to fall by up to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.un.org/africarenewal/magazine/special-edition-agriculture-2014/despite-climate-change-africa-can-feed-africa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">20 per cent</a>&nbsp;by 2030, endangering countless lives and livelihoods alike.



In the face of this urgent challenge, there remains a huge gap in Africa’s current climate adaptation funding, estimated to be within the region of&nbsp;<a href="https://gca.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/GCA_State-and-Trends-in-Adaptation-2022_Adaptation-Finance-Flows-in-Africa.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US$41.3 billion</a>&nbsp;– annually – for the entire continent.



To bridge this climate finance gap, African countries must urgently adopt a range of innovative policy, financial, and institutional solutions to encourage more investment in adaptation. The recently released Malabo Montpellier Panel&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mamopanel.org/resources/climate-finance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate finance report</a>&nbsp;analyzes policy and institutional innovations and programmatic interventions across four African countries to explore government actions toward leveraging international climate finance for food systems transformation.



Key recommendations from the report underscore the importance of securing timely, predictable, and sustainable access to finance to support adaptation across Africa’s food systems – buffering the main source of nutrition and livelihoods for many. Similarly, access to finance must go hand-in-hand with capacity building in national institutions across the region, in the public and private sectors, for sustainable outcomes.



To begin with, mobilizing greater private sector finance will prove essential in bridging the existing gap in adaptation finance. Private finance is an underutilized resource in African climate finance, yet the goal of greater adaptation for food systems cannot be achieved without it.



Currently, the African Development Bank estimates that about 75 per cent of the financing required for the successful implementation of Africa’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) – the climate commitments and goals of each individual country – needs to be provided through private investments. Despite this, there is also a lack of data to accurately capture the amount of private climate finance that is currently allocated to food systems, a fundamental drawback that must be resolved in bridging this financing gap.



Recent developments in private finance offer a path forward for unlocking future adaptation funding for African countries. For instance, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clarmondial.com/fsf_launch_first_investment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Securities Fund</a>, developed by Clarmondial, provides working capital loans to agricultural aggregators such as cooperatives, processors, and traders in developing and emerging markets.



Secondly, African countries should prioritize blended finance models in raising more and better adaptation funding.



Blended finance models combine concessional capital from private or public resources to de-risk and “leverage” additional capital from other actors. Furthermore, blended finance instruments allow each party to accomplish their own objectives while at the same time contributing to common goals – in this case – climate adaptation.



According to the National Climate Funds Tracker, there are 12 national climate funds in Africa. National climate funds offer an important means to mobilize funds for adaptation by raising and blending capital from public and private sources.



Moving forward, African governments and financial decisionmakers should seek to prioritize blended finance models to boost adaptation funding. Ethiopia’s Climate Resilient Green Economy (<a href="https://www.mofed.gov.et/programmes-projects/crge-facility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CRGE</a>) Facility, for example, offers a dedicated financing arm to coordinate the receipts and disbursements of finance from international sources to sectoral ministries for implementation.



Finally, African countries should adopt local climate finance models, to boost the climate adaptation of local communities who are ultimately on the frontlines of climate change.



At present, estimates suggest that only five per cent of all funding flows from international climate funds have been disbursed for locally based climate adaptation interventions on the continent. Essentially, the communities that most need this finance are not receiving it.



In 2017/18, climate finance globally reached only&nbsp;<a href="https://www.climatepolicyinitiative.org/publication/climate-finance-small-scale-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US$8.1 billion</a>&nbsp;for small-scale farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and other value chain actors serving them – despite their importance in adapting our food systems as a whole to the impacts of climate change. These figures were equivalent to only&nbsp;<a href="https://www.climatepolicyinitiative.org/publication/climate-finance-small-scale-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">40 per cent</a>&nbsp;of the total climate funds committed to the agriculture, forestry, and land use sectors in those years.



Governments and financial sectors across Africa must take note of recent developments to grow the amount of climate finance reaching local communities. The development of the National Fund for Environment and Climate Change (FNEC) and Community Development Support Fund (FaDEC) in Benin, offer examples for how climate finance can help support the most vulnerable local communities more effectively.



To meet the adaptation needs of Africa’s food systems, an important paradigm shift amongst the finance community, and African governments, is needed; both groups are critical and need to complement each other to achieve collective aims.



Climate adaptation is not only an opportunity to address the impacts of climate change, but also serves as a springboard to unlock the potential of food systems to deliver for lives and livelihoods across Africa.



Dr. Debisi Araba, Visiting Researcher, Imperial College London; Member, Malabo Montpellier Panel

A plant sprouting from a handful of coins. Investment, finance, and accounting concept

The African innovations unlocking new pathways to scale access to climate finance

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1365582823-1-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422254" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1365582823-1-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1365582823-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1365582823-1-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1365582823-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1365582823-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1365582823-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Two doctors in hospital hallway discussing electronic patient record &#8211; stock photo</figcaption></figure>



Geneva, Switzerland, 9 January 2023 – The shortage of healthcare workers could rise to 10 million by the end of the decade, affecting access to care, inequities and treatment of mental health. A new report published by the World Economic Forum, <a href="https://www.weforum.org/reports/global-health-and-healthcare-strategic-outlook-shaping-the-future-of-health-and-healthcare">Global Health and Healthcare Strategic Outlook</a>, offers business and policy-makers a blueprint for more sustainable, resilient healthcare systems rather than accepting trade-offs of efficiency over social fairness.



Launched in the run-up to the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 in Davos-Klosters, the report presents case studies in four areas that can drive change: equitable access and outcomes; healthcare systems transformation; technology and innovation; and environmental&nbsp;sustainability.



“The pandemic brought remarkable progress for development and delivery of medicines. We now need to focus on long-term system change to stop health services deteriorating in the face of economic crises. Businesses and policy-makers must think beyond false trade-offs of efficiency over social fairness and harness the power of public-private partnerships and outcomes-based regulation to drive healthy equity by the end of the decade,” said Shyam Bishen, Head of Health &amp; Healthcare, World Economic Forum.



The Annual Meeting will convene more than 2,700 leaders from business, government and civil society. Leaders from healthcare organizations will focus on driving public-private partnerships for better health outcomes.



The report, prepared with L.E.K. Consulting, highlights the pandemic’s disruptions such as a 25% drop in coverage of essential health services. This resulted in compound impacts on vulnerable populations and minority communities, especially in low- and middle-income countries. More specifically, COVID-19 put extra strain on healthcare systems, disrupted global supply chains of essential products and pushed overburdened care providers to breaking point.



“The threat of violence and burnout are real and is one of the contributors as to why doctors are considering other professions,” said Kashish Malhotra, Physician, Department of Internal Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, North India



To improve access and narrow the global health disparity gap, the report urged healthcare leaders to allocate funds disproportionately towards alternative care models and to include more representative clinical trials across low- to middle-income countries.



As healthcare systems seek to adapt and evolve, innovations frequently outpace regulatory change. On top of this, public regulations vary by jurisdiction and the lack of common standards across the global industry erodes trust, inhibits reimbursements and slows the sector’s return to pre-pandemic stability. Meanwhile, the private sector is stymied by fragile and disrupted supply chains, while a go-it-alone business mindset further slows healthcare’s systemic transformation.



“Too often we see many companies trying to find the path through the forest themselves and each of them getting lost and not learning from one another,” saidJeff Allen, Chief Executive Officer, Friends of Cancer Research. “Public-private partnerships help bridge this divide to find solutions to common problems in a shorter time.” Service delivery value is worth more than volume, the report argues. To incorporate prevention, healthcare policy should be linked to consistent and measurable outcomes since what is efficient is not always what is most effective.



On partnerships for innovation, the pandemic accelerated a technological tipping point in digital health and telemedicine. This can be expanded to other areas of healthcare. With a Wi-Fi signal and better digital access, a rural patient can consult with a health worker from a nearby city or halfway around the world. “People want on-demand healthcare,” said Jisella Veath Dolan, Chief Global Advocacy Officer, Honor + Home Instead. “We want greater accessibility to real-time answers.”



Remote care empowers both patient and worker. It improves convenience, adherence and access to information across geographies. By reducing the need for traditional infrastructure, costs per patient fall. And telehealth goes beyond online consultation. Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics further support clinical decisions, home diagnostics, home-administered drug delivery systems and patient monitoring devices. By harmonizing data use, Dolan said, “physicians are building better relationships with patients through telehealth and we are seeing greater uptick in usage by older adults.” The pandemic demanded emergency responses. However, according to the new report, medical triumphs are too often reactive “cures” to the communicative zoonotic diseases that could have been prevented at far lower costs. To preserve health and save lives, a higher return on investment comes from clean air, safe water and healthy biodiversity. &nbsp;

GettyImages-1365582823-1

‘Patient-First’ Tech Innovations Can Boost Healthcare Access, Tackle Workforce Shortages and Burnout 

Cabinet has approved the publication of the Green Hydrogen Commercialisation Strategy (GHCS) for public comment.



The strategy is aimed at ensuring that the country takes full advantage of the opportunities provided by green industrialisation.



Minister in the Presidency, Mondli Gungubele, said that the Green Hydrogen Commercialisation Strategy will ensure that South Africa becomes a major producer and exporter of green hydrogen.



“It contributes towards economic growth and supports the country’s just transition interventions towards the reduction of carbon emissions,” Gungubele said at a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.



South Africa already has the Hydrogen Strategy and the Hydrogen Society Roadmap adopted by Cabinet in 2021.



Cabinet said that the rapidly growing green hydrogen market presents huge opportunities for the country.



The release of the GHCS for public comment follows the recent South Africa Green Hydrogen Summit which outlined some of the country’s future plans.



South Africa is one of the founding members of the Africa Green Hydrogen Alliance (AGHA) which seeks to promote continental green hydrogen cooperation. –SAnews.gov.za

hydrogen

Cabinet approves publication of Green Hydrogen Commercialisation Strategy

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="499" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2-820x499.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-421744" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2-820x499.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2-300x182.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2-148x90.jpg 148w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2-768x467.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2-1536x934.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2.jpg 1638w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim (L) and Prof Salim Abdool Karim (R) at the CAPRISA main laboratory in Durban, South Africa. They are two of the world’s leading AIDS researchers, with pioneering contributions in understanding the evolving HIV epidemic among young people, especially among young women while also advocating for the rights of people living with and affected by HIV.</figcaption></figure>



We can no longer ignore the connection between inequality and new HIV infections &#8211; Prof. Salim Abdool Karim, Director of the Center for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)



In sub-Saharan Africa, every two minutes an adolescent girl or young woman was newly infected with HIV in 2021 alone. One young woman. Every two minutes. Think about that for a moment. The <a href="https://indanger.unaids.org/">In Danger</a>report should raise alarm bells for all of us.



The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down HIV prevention and treatment in the past two-and-a-half years leading to significant impact on the control of the disease and the achievement of the <a href="https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/documents/2020/global-aids-report">95-95-9</a>5 strategy which calls for 95% of people living with HIV to know their HIV status, 95% of people who know their status to be on antiretroviral, and 95% of all patients receiving antiretroviral therapy to be virally suppressed.



While much progress has been made over the past four decades since the first HIV cases were reported, not everyone is benefitting equally from the scientific advancements that have taken place in HIV research in recent years. Notably, this progress should not be used to justify inequalities that still persist in HIV testing and treatment, even more so for the introduction of new technologies. The upcoming 2nd <a href="https://cphia2022.com/">International Conference on Public Health in Africa</a> (CPHIA 2022) December 13-15 in Kigali, Rwanda will shine the spotlight on this connection and the urgent need to focus on HIV response alongside Tuberculosis (TB), malaria and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).



Reducing stigma and discrimination, and increasing access to justice are critical in the global response to HIV. By combining resources and strengths to support vulnerable communities at a higher risk of exposure to HIV – such as migrants and prisoners, people who use drugs, LGBTI people, sex workers, teenagers, young people, women and children, we can work together to address the range of challenges they face and in so doing, ensure they have timely access to essential HIV care and support.



Identifying and involving these vulnerable communities lie at the heart of an effective action plan. These groups bring invaluable knowledge of the specific obstacles they face, and the potential – and sustainable – solutions to affect real long-term change. Partnerships between community-based organisations and academic institutions can provide the evidence to inform policy, programs and services to better respond to the unique realities and needs of communities, particularly the most marginalised. Such partnerships are fundamental to creating lasting health change in Africa.



From the COVID-19 response, we have learned the importance of supporting scientific innovation and promoting cutting-edge medical technologies, and making them available to people in all countries throughout the world in an affordable and timely manner. Similarly, African-led convenings, such as CPHIA 2022, will offer opportunities for researchers and public health leaders share knowledge, and strengthen scientific collaboration and innovation to reinforce stronger primary health care systems and create a conducive environment capable of responding to diseases—such as HIV —that continue to disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.



The <a href="https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/documents/2021/2021_political-declaration-on-hiv-and-aids">political declaration</a> adopted by United Nations Member States in 2021 to end inequality and get on track to end AIDS by 2030 is a clear indication that there is genuine eagerness – and action – toward reducing new HIV infection. Reaching this goal will require an integrated and holistic approach by all players to create mutually beneficial partnerships; those that seek to combine the different strengths of diverse partners to convert big ideas into bigger, impactful outcomes.



Therefore, it is important to learn from the pandemic and leverage cross-border and cross-sectoral collaborations with speed and accuracy when these challenges threaten our lives and economic well-being. &nbsp;



We owe it to the next generation to do better. We owe it to them to break the cycle of economic, social, cultural and legal inequalities and ensure an <a href="https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2011/11/176810.htm">AIDS-free generation</a> with zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths. The goal is ambitious but achievable and vital in ending AIDS as a global health threat.



As we commemorate the 34th anniversary of World AIDS Day today (1 December) under the theme “Equalize”, I join hands with other public health leaders in every sphere and at every level in committing providing actionable solutions to the barriers that keep us from making progress and helping to end AIDS.

SSAK-QAK-main-lab-Matthew-Henning-4MG-2

Ending AIDS for the Next Generation

Africa is in a race against time on food security and the stakes could not be higher. The situation is unprecedented in my four decades of experience working in agricultural research and development.



We are faced with the longest drought in over 40 years, leaving <a href="https://www.who.int/news/item/02-08-2022-who-launches-appeal-to-respond-to-urgent-health-needs-in-the-greater-horn-of-africa">80 million people in the Horn of Africa with uncertain access to adequate nourishment</a>. In my home country of Nigeria, <a href="https://nema.gov.ng/">recent flooding</a> – the worst in a decade – has destroyed vital food supplies in Africa’s most populous nation. Hunger is again stalking the continent.



Africa’s food security is squeezed from two sides since the continent has both the lowest agricultural productivity of any region and the fastest population growth. Yields of everything from wheat to rice to cassava are well below the global average, reflecting the fact that millions of smallholder farmers lack access to the basic tools and skills that could lift them beyond subsistence.



The short-term outlook is bleak. Regional conflicts, extreme weather events and economic instability are all exacerbating the food crisis. And Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has driven up global prices for food, fuel and fertilizer, limiting the ability of African countries to finance vital imports.



Despite this, there remains an enormous untapped opportunity to put Africa’s food security on a sounder footing. The economic case for action is compelling. Investments in agricultural innovations have been shown to generate <a href="https://www.cgiar.org/news-events/news/cgiar-research-pays-off-new-report-finds-10-times-return-on-investment/">returns 10 times the amount initially invested</a>.



By rolling out agricultural solutions that are known to improve productivity – from better seeds and fertilizers to early warning systems and training for growers – farms across Africa can increase output and build long-term resilience.



According to one analysis, <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/agriculture/our-insights/winning-in-africas-agricultural-market">Africa could produce two to three times more cereals and coarse grains</a>, primarily by improving crop yields and reducing post-harvest losses. Even a fraction of that improvement would transform the continent’s food security situation and slash its current alarming dependence on imports.



The window for action, however, is limited and the need to implement change is urgent. African nations need to move away from dependency on development assistance, they need to significantly invest in agricultural research and development and for the near term, they need to select and fast-track interventions with the greatest potential to deliver both immediate gains and sustainable improvements in agriculture. This is essential to meet the demographic challenges of the years ahead.



Encouragingly, leading African institutions are now coming together to help make these productivity gains a reality. &nbsp;



The African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Union, the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa and CGIAR – the world’s largest agricultural research and innovation network, have recently <a href="https://www.cgiar.org/news-events/news/abidjan-ii-african-development-bank-african-union-commission-cgiar-forum-for-agricultural-research-in-africa-join-forces-to-strengthen-africas-food-systems/">committed to close cooperation</a> to take African agriculture to the next level. This is welcome news.



The aim – to empower African farmers to better feed their communities – is simple, yet the prize is great. The immediate priority is to deploy proven tools at the scale of tens of millions of farmers. It is a goal that is eminently achievable. In the last three years, for example, the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) scheme, which is supported by the African Development Bank and implemented by CGIAR, has delivered climate-smart seeds to 12 million farmers in 27 countries. Breeding better crop varieties is just one of a range of transformational innovations that are needed to ensure Africa’s future food security, ranging from improvements in soil fertility to better livestock management. It does not stop there, for any holistic solution it will be critical to maintain investment in research, to improve resilience to future shocks.



Leveraging the capabilities of CGIAR’s network of research centers, which benefit from the support and partnership of their host countries in Africa and beyond, Africa can achieve similar agricultural growth and food security gains seen in Asia and Latin America.



The transition to a more unified and integrated “One CGIAR” is positioning the organization to tackle increasingly complex and interconnected challenges to food security and deliver holistic solutions to smallholder farmers everywhere. I believe that smallholder farmers in Africa will benefit most from an integrated CGIAR working in partnership with African research and innovation institutions. That is why I, along with other African stakeholders and partners of CGIAR, support the call from its <a href="https://www.cgiar.org/news-events/news/cgiar-country-region-and-funding-partners-signal-strong-support-for-integration/">country, regional and funding constituents</a>, for CGIAR Centers and other parties to endorse in December an agreement that puts the integration on a clear path forward.  



Sadly, the world is not on track to meet the <a href="https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/hunger/">UN Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger by 2030</a> – and it is people in Africa who will bear the brunt of this policy failure. That is all the more reason to deploy proven technologies that can transform the fortunes of Africa’s farmers today, while maintaining critical investment in research that will provide resilience to future shocks. &nbsp;&nbsp;



Now is the right time for African decision-makers to make the smart investment decisions needed to get appropriate technologies to their farmers at scale.



Dr Nwanze has worked for more than 40 years for CGIAR and Rome-based agencies, most recently serving as President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and is a former member of the CGIAR System Management Board.

20351421759_9900ccaad9_k

Unleashing Africa’s agricultural potential is key to food security

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/responsive_big_webp_-T-8c6OQK1-KTppFdqwFVMOi_mvKHnJgNOWMtDDuCRA-820x547.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-421605" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/responsive_big_webp_-T-8c6OQK1-KTppFdqwFVMOi_mvKHnJgNOWMtDDuCRA-820x547.webp 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/responsive_big_webp_-T-8c6OQK1-KTppFdqwFVMOi_mvKHnJgNOWMtDDuCRA-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/responsive_big_webp_-T-8c6OQK1-KTppFdqwFVMOi_mvKHnJgNOWMtDDuCRA-135x90.webp 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/responsive_big_webp_-T-8c6OQK1-KTppFdqwFVMOi_mvKHnJgNOWMtDDuCRA-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/responsive_big_webp_-T-8c6OQK1-KTppFdqwFVMOi_mvKHnJgNOWMtDDuCRA-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/responsive_big_webp_-T-8c6OQK1-KTppFdqwFVMOi_mvKHnJgNOWMtDDuCRA.webp 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Jute farmers work in a flooded area of rural West Bengal which has been badly hit by climate change. Image: DIPAYAN BOSE / Climate Visuals Countdown.</figcaption></figure>



As the impacts of climate change hit harder, a new realism is dawning about our changed circumstances. Increasingly, we are recognising that climate change isn’t just a future problem from which we must protect our children. It is a problem from which we must protect ourselves today.



We need to fight climate change with both sword (cutting our emissions to fight further increases in warming) and shield (protecting ourselves from climate change’s increasing effects). Adaptation and mitigation should be pursued, as UN Secretary General António Guterres said, &#8220;with equal force and urgency.&#8221; Over 1C of warming has already happened, and <a href="https://www.unep.org/resources/emissions-gap-report-2022">warming over 1.5C is very likely</a>. We are <a href="https://www.unep.org/resources/adaptation-gap-report-2021">nowhere near ready</a> for the impacts this will bring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Climate adaptation action plan</h2>



On 8 November 2022, the COP27 Presidency launched the&nbsp;<a href="https://climatechampions.unfccc.int/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SeS-Adaptation-Agenda_Complete-Report-COP27_FINAL-1.pdf">Sharm-El-Sheikh Adaptation Agenda</a>&nbsp;– the first ever comprehensive global action plan rallying governments and non-state actors behind 30 adaptation goals for a resilient world by 2030. This framework signals a growing expectation that business, alongside other actors (countries, cities, investors, civil society), take action to adapt to the acute hazards now facing us.



Adaptation is a crucial part of the fight against climate change. It is necessary to protect people around the world from the climate change that’s already in process, and it also brings huge opportunities to help 7.8 billion people transition to a more sustainable and secure way of life.



For example, transitioning to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg2/">climate-resilient farming practices</a>&nbsp;could increase yields by 17% without increasing land use. Adaptation will spur the expansion of industries, such as water conservation, heat-resistant infrastructure, and drought-resistant agricultures, supporting prosperity and security for billions of people as we build a climate-resilient world.



Adaptation is good for business. It can help companies expand their business footprint, achieve efficiency gains, innovate for the future, and enhance long-term sustainability. In addition, business adaptation is good for the society of which business is an inseparable part. Business thrives when society thrives.



Retooling society to cope with a warming climate is a huge task. Business, with its dynamic capacity to power innovation and change, has a critical role to play. That’s why PwC and the World Economic Forum are collaborating to help drive adaptation to climate change. We’ve united a global community from the private and public sectors to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/sustainability/publications/critical-business-actions-for-climate-change-adaptation.html">define three areas</a>&nbsp;in which business can take action:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Enhance resilience</h2>



Companies should assess their climate risks and build sufficient resilience. Companies should study the risks in their supply chains, identifying risk hotspots, prioritising areas for adaptation, and supporting stakeholders in their supply chains with the technical skills and financial support they need to adapt. For example, a large retailer identified dozens of its facilities at risk of extreme weather, while a major conglomerate identified hundreds of millions of dollars of potential climate-related risks in its supply chain – enabling both companies to <a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/sustainability/publications/risks-and-opportunities-of-climate-change-on-business.html">take action to build resilience</a>. Other firms are striving to build resilience through developing or using, for example, weather data and early warning systems, drought resistant crops, flood defences, waste water collection and re-use, cooling systems, heat resistant infrastructure, and more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Capitalise on opportunities</h2>



Businesses can flex their skills in investment and innovation to develop and scale products and services that enable society to live sustainably in the new climate reality. This includes, for example, investing in R&amp;D and building ecosystems to foster innovation and scale new adaptation solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Shape collaborative outcomes</h2>



Successful adaptation requires cross-society collaboration. Managing climate change requires&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/sustainability/publications/net-zero-progress-and-perils.html">partnership between all parts of society</a>. Businesses can participate in multi-stakeholder efforts that promote action on climate change adaptation, from engaging with governments on policy-making to collaborating with industry players, community leaders, academia, development agencies and others to promote action. Partnering with local communities is particularly valuable because climate change has different impacts in different locales, meaning adaptation solutions need to be hyper-local. In addition, companies can join adaptation initiatives like&nbsp;<a href="https://racetozero.unfccc.int/join-the-race-to-resilience/">Race to Resilience</a>, co-invest in adaptation projects, and provide technical support to adaptation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Investing in climate adaptation</h2>



In short, smart companies are acting now to adapt to a climate that is changing before our eyes. The more energetically business dedicates itself to adaptation, the more society as a whole is helped to adapt and benefit.



Some business leaders view adaptation as a corporate social responsibility initiative rather than a business imperative as part of the overall execution strategy and risk management. We encourage these executives to recognise that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/sustainability/publications/risks-and-opportunities-of-climate-change-on-business.html">all companies</a>&nbsp;can be affected by climate change. Even business leaders who may believe their companies have little exposure to climate change have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/sustainability/climate/the-true-test-of-climate-resilience.html">no reason for complacency</a>.



The effort of adaptation is worth it. Globally, $1.8 trillion of investment into adaptation efforts could generate&nbsp;<a href="https://gca.org/reports/adapt-now-a-global-call-for-leadership-on-climate-resilience/">$7.1 trillion in total net benefits by 2030</a>. Insurers reckon that a dollar spent on adaptation – strengthening flood and wind defences, for example –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.economist.com/special-report/2015/11/26/hot-and-bothered">saves five in reconstruction</a>. Best of all, of course, proactive adaptation opens up opportunities to build a more sustainable world.



We encourage all companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/sustainability/publications/critical-business-actions-for-climate-change-adaptation.html">take action in these three areas</a>&nbsp;to help fight climate change with both sword and shield.

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