Seven early and mid-career researchers from six African countries have gathered in Nairobi for a five-day writeshop aimed at strengthening accountability in climate adaptation. The event, taking place from 14 to 18 July 2025 at Emara Ole Sereni Hotel, is part of the Accountable Adaptation Fellowship Programme, jointly convened by the Africa Research and Impact Network (ARIN) and University College London (UCL), with funding from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
The fellows, representing Nigeria, Egypt, Zimbabwe, Ghana, South Africa, and Togo, are leading action research projects through a mini-grants scheme under the broader Accountable Adaptation initiative. Their work builds on the programme’s foundational paper, Opening up accountability in adaptation: a framework for research and action, and aims to generate practical knowledge to inform policy, funding, and the implementation of adaptation efforts.
Throughout the week, the researchers will engage in structured writing sessions, collaborative analysis, and peer learning activities. The programme includes thematic discussions, mentorship, and lectures by experts from ARIN, UCL, the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN), and the Global Strategic Communications Council (GSCC).
On Thursday, the fellows will take part in a field learning visit hosted by Slum Dwellers International Kenya (SDI-Kenya) in Mathare, where community-led adaptation projects are underway. The visit is expected to offer grounded insights into how accountability is being applied at the local level and how community voices shape adaptation outcomes.
This writeshop is a key step in the fellows’ journey toward producing high-quality, evidence-based outputs—including policy briefs, blogs, and other knowledge products that reflect diverse African contexts. It reinforces the programme’s goal of making adaptation more transparent, inclusive, and responsive to those most affected by climate change.
Learn more about the fellows and their work: www.accountableadaptation.org/fellowship-programme