Workshop sets the stage for policy-aligned research on natural capital
The workshop led to engaged and interesting discussions. Photo: EfD South Africa
EPRU-EfD South Africa hosted this workshop on May 26–27, as part of the Natural Capital Collaborative (NatCap), bringing together 44 researchers and policymakers from across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The event marks the first step to ensure that NatCap’s 3-4 year research plan is deeply aligned with African environmental policy priorities.
Participants came from eight African countries—Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, and South Africa—alongside NatCap’s theme leaders. The group included 14 policymakers, reflecting NatCap’s commitment to bridging the gap between academic research and policy implementation.
Grounding research in local realities
Professor Edwin Muchapondwa opened the workshop with a keynote on the importance of environmental research that is not only scientifically rigorous, but also socially grounded and inclusive. His message highlights the value of engaging with the communities affected by environmental policies.
Collaborative breakout sessions highlighted regional priorities
Central to the workshop were breakout sessions where participants engaged in collaborative dialogue to identify pressing environmental issues and formulate research questions that NatCap could pursue. These sessions surfaced a range of priorities across SSA and helped distil them into key thematic areas under NatCap’s research pillars.
One especially resonant topic was the disproportionate burden environmental challenges place on women and children—particularly regarding time and labour spent on resource collection, such as firewood and water. Integrating gender-sensitive perspectives into research and policymaking emerged as a crucial throughline between the different discussion groups.
Policymakers voiced their priorities
Day two featured a high-level policymaker panel, moderated by EfD Director Gunnar Köhlin. Policymakers from across the region shared insights into the challenges they face and stressed the value of open, ongoing dialogue with researchers. These conversations are essential to ensuring that academic research responds directly to policy needs and contributes meaningfully to decision-making.
Looking ahead
The workshop succeeded in initiating what will be an evolving collaboration between researchers and policymakers under the NatCap umbrella. As Acting Director of EPRU-EfD South Africa, Professor Amin Karimu reflected in his closing remarks, “This is just the beginning.”
This workshop has helped lay the foundation for a research agenda that truly reflects the environmental and developmental priorities of Sub-Saharan Africa.
To read the quick highlights of the workshop, please find it here.
To read the full report of the workshop, please find it here.
Josh Gray