At the recently concluded 11th Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa, Dr. Alice Kaudia championed her longstanding commitment to advancing climate action, particularly through the engagement of local communities, women and youth. Speaking on the need for climate policies that directly benefit the African continent while contributing to global climate efforts, Dr. Kaudia emphasized the importance of practical, on-the-ground solutions.

“While pursuing the global adaptation target is essential,” Dr. Kaudia remarked, “we must ensure that these policies are translated into practical adaptation solutions at the local level.” She called for targeted support to key stakeholders such as farmers, pastoralists, and industrialists to help them build resilience and reduce their vulnerability to climate change.

Dr. Kaudia’s insights resonate with the overarching goal of the conference—to balance global climate action with tailored local strategies that address the unique challenges Africa faces. Her focus on empowering local communities to lead climate solutions is a call for practical, community-driven approaches to climate adaptation.

This year’s conference also provided a platform to reinforce the message that, while global coordination is vital, Africa must prioritize practical solutions that directly benefit its communities and environments. Dr. Kaudia’s contributions further echoed the need for this practical implementation at both national and continental levels, ensuring Africa’s climate policies translate into real-world impacts for the people who need it most.