AFC, Common Purpose partner to drive new approaches to climate issues

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) has partnered with Common Purpose to launch the Climate Challenge Leadership Programme. The initiative aims to empower emerging leaders from Africa and around the world to bridge the gap between the global North and South and find innovative solutions to address environmental challenges. Sanjeev Gupta, Head of Financial Services at AFC, and Adirupa Sengupta, Group Chief Executive of Common Purpose Charitable Trust, recently joined CNBC Africa to discuss this exciting venture. Common Purpose and AFC have a longstanding partnership, which they both value deeply. Adirupa Sengupta highlighted the significance of identifying emerging leaders from various sectors with at least five years of experience and a strong desire to drive positive change in the environmental realm. This diverse group of individuals will come together to share, collaborate, and innovate, aiming to tackle complex environmental issues. Sanjeev Gupta emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration in addressing the climate crisis, particularly from an African perspective. Despite Africa accounting for less than 3% of global emissions, the continent hosts crucial carbon sinks and possesses solutions to many climate-related challenges. The AFC, as a development institution, has recognized the need for future leaders in Africa to engage with global counterparts to align on climate objectives while considering Africa's unique development trajectory. The Climate Challenge Leadership Programme will offer a platform for emerging leaders to connect online, share diverse perspectives, and work on real-life environmental challenges collaboratively. The application process is currently open until the 27th of August, encouraging passionate individuals to apply and contribute their creativity and agility to the program. Furthermore, the AFC has a three-pronged approach to supporting Africa's efforts in combating climate change, with the Leadership Programme playing a pivotal role in nurturing young minds with innovative ideas and a mature global outlook. Sanjeev Gupta stressed the necessity of structured dialogues that lead to tangible outcomes, ensuring that the voices of Africa's youth and future leaders are heard and actively contribute to shaping climate solutions. The collaboration between AFC and Common Purpose signifies a turning point in the fight against climate change, as it acknowledges the need for inclusive and collaborative efforts to address this pressing global issue. By empowering emerging leaders to drive change, share knowledge, and work together across borders, the Climate Challenge Leadership Programme sets the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa and the world.