Galien Forum Africa: Enhaning African women’s role in climate and environmental crises

One of the critical areas 2024 Galien Forum Africa focused on was ‘The Position and Role of Women in the Face of Climate and Environmental Crises in Africa.”

As one of the several side forums, the gathering of women explored actionable strategies to empower African women in tackling climate and environmental challenges.

Dr. Cissoko Beye, Coordinator of the Forum’s Permanent Secretariat and the Galien Africa Prize, presented the outcomes, organised around six critical themes:

• Women’s leadership in climate crises;
• Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM);
• Equity and gender in climate and environmental responses;
• Access to quality medicines to address health impacts of environmental crises;
• Africa’s response to the COP28 declaration on climate and health;
• Strengthening women’s role in research and development. Addressing Key Challenges and Strategies for Change

Discussions underscored significant barriers facing African women and outlined strategies to drive their full participation and influence in climate action.

1. Women’s Leadership in Climate Action:
Participants highlighted the essential role of women in mitigating climate and environmental crises in Africa, despite their contributions often being undervalued. Recommendations included formalizing women’s roles and fostering greater community engagement to initiate sustainable change from early education.

2. Women in STEM Fields:
The forum noted a growing presence of women in leadership roles within environmental and governmental sectors, aided by networks that facilitate the exchange of best practices. These networks enhance women’s impact on inclusive and sustainable policy-making.

3. Gender Equity in Climate Response:
Emphasis was placed on integrating gender equality into Africa’s climate response strategies. Although women play a significant role in natural resource management, they are disproportionately affected by climate impacts due to socio-economic disparities. Proposed solutions included expanded access to resources, education, and leadership roles.

4. Addressing Health and Pharmaceutical Access in Climate Crises:
Participants addressed Africa’s dual challenge of climate change and limited access to essential medicines. As climate change disrupts pharmaceutical supply chains, millions of Africans face increased difficulties in obtaining critical treatments. The forum recommended pursuing African pharmaceutical autonomy aligned with international quality standards.

5. Following Up on COP28:
To adapt health and climate policies effectively, participants advocated for African countries to incorporate COP28 recommendations into national frameworks that reflect the continent’s unique needs.

6. Empowering Women in Research and Development:
Strengthening women’s participation in research is key to fostering gender equity and unlocking Africa’s innovation potential. Affirmative action in STEM education and training was encouraged to bolster women’s representation in these vital fields.

Education and Mindset Shifts for Lasting Change

Forum participants identified education and mindset transformation as fundamental for building resilience.

They proposed creating an air quality bulletin, establishing interdisciplinary working groups, and redefining community roles to bolster African women’s adaptability in the face of environmental crises.

The forum’s recommendations will be shared with policymakers and partners to inspire actions for a more resilient and inclusive Africa.

About Galien Forum Africa

The Galien Forum Africa serves as a premier platform dedicated to advancing innovation and research in healthcare. It brings together global leaders and experts to foster sustainable solutions for Africa’s public health challenges.

The Africa Media Network for the Promotion of Health and Environment (REMAPSEN ) were among several other partners represented at this year’s forum.

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