African Women Urged to Acquire Green Skills for Climate Action
URGENT UPDATE: Women across Africa are being called to action as new findings reveal that acquiring green skills is essential for combating climate change. Experts emphasize that enhancing women’s role in the green economy is crucial to achieving sustainable development and environmental resilience.
The report highlights that women in Africa have historically faced barriers such as limited access to land, finance, and education. However, with the world shifting towards renewable energy and sustainable practices, there is a significant opportunity for women to triple their productivity in sectors like agriculture, energy, and manufacturing, according to the latest data.
Authorities confirm that equipping women with green skills can play a transformative role in addressing climate challenges. For instance, women can learn climate-smart practices such as drip irrigation and drought-resistant crop cultivation, while technicians can gain expertise in solar panel installation. These are vital forms of reskilling that align with emerging green job opportunities.
The need for green skills is underscored by the Green Jobs for Youth Pact, which prioritizes young people but often overlooks women, who are disproportionately affected by climate change. Women are already key players in implementing innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, particularly in agriculture and water management.
Experts stress that to keep pace with climate challenges, women must be equipped with modern, technology-enabled skills. This ensures that traditional knowledge is preserved while integrating new techniques. A recent study authored by Ogechi Adeola from the University of Kigali, Innocent Ngare from Kenyatta University, and Olaniyi Evans from Pan Atlantic University emphasizes the urgent need for a gender-inclusive approach to climate action.
To make these skills accessible, experts call for inclusive government programs that prioritize gender equity, particularly for rural and marginalized women. Policymakers must integrate green reskilling into national climate strategies and educational reforms.
The report identifies critical green skills needed for women, including:
1. **Natural asset management** – Skills to assess and conserve natural resources.
2. **Low-carbon industry support** – Skills for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
3. **Climate-resilient skills** – Abilities to help communities adapt to climate challenges, such as infrastructure capable of withstanding floods.
4. **Resource-efficient skills** – Techniques for reducing waste and conserving resources.
5. **Green digital skills** – Proficiencies in using digital tools for sustainable practices and environmental monitoring.
Experts highlight the necessity of gender-responsive policies to ensure that women are not sidelined in national climate action plans. Many African nations have adopted gender-sensitive climate policies, yet implementation remains a challenge due to inadequate funding and coordination.
Moreover, partnerships among governments, civil society, and the private sector are essential for creating a supportive environment for women-led climate initiatives. For example, in Tanzania, collaborative efforts have successfully integrated gender equality into national climate policies.
As more African women acquire these green skills, the entire community’s resilience to climate change will improve, leading to enhanced adaptive capabilities and inclusive economic growth. Engaging men in promoting gender equality will also foster shared responsibility and benefit communities as a whole.
The time for action is now. With climate change impacting millions, investing in the green future of African women is not just an opportunity—it is a necessity.
Experts urge immediate attention to these critical needs, stating, “Green reskilling is not just about training – it’s about transformation.”
This article is part of ongoing research into how gender equality and climate action can drive sustainable development across Africa.
For more information on the latest developments, stay tuned as this story evolves.
