Women in Africa are disproportionately affected by climate change, yet they are also pivotal agents of resilience and innovation. Despite comprising 80% of climate-displaced populations (UNEP, 2022), women receive less than 0.2% of global climate funding. ICRW Africa’s research highlights the urgent need to invest in women-led climate solutions.
The Gender-Climate Nexus
- Resource management: Women’s indigenous knowledge in sustainable agriculture and water conservation remains underutilized.
- Energy poverty: 600 million Africans lack electricity access (IEA, 2023), forcing women to rely on polluting fuels, which exacerbates respiratory illnesses.
- Economic vulnerability: Climate shocks deepen poverty by disrupting women’s livelihoods in farming and informal trade.
ICRW Africa’s Evidence-Based Approach
Through the What Works: Women and Climate Change initiative, ICRW Africa:
- Documents successful women-led adaptation strategies, such as drought-resistant farming in Kenya.
- Advocates for gender-responsive climate financing at regional forums like the African Union Summit.
- Convenes the Gender and Climate Learning Collaborative, a platform for policymakers and practitioners.
Success Story: Solar Sisters in Uganda
A community-based project training women to sell solar lamps has reduced indoor air pollution while creating 500+ jobs. Participants report a 40% increase in household income.
Conclusion
Scaling women’s climate leadership is a triple win: it advances gender equality, mitigates environmental degradation, and strengthens economic resilience. Policymakers must prioritize funding and platforms for women’s voices in climate decision-making.
Key Takeaways for Policymakers
- Care Economy: Integrate unpaid care work into national accounting systems.
- Social Norms: Combine grassroots education with structural reforms to dismantle barriers.
- Climate Action: Direct funding to women-led initiatives and include women in policy design.
Call to Action
To learn more about ICRW Africa’s research or partner with us.
