Dr Mwenda and Dr Atela display their certificates upon signing the MoU

By Florence Onyango

On May 15, 2025, the Africa Research and Impact Network (ARIN) and the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) formalized a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Azzeman Hotel in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The agreement was signed by Dr. Joanes Atela, Executive Director of ARIN, and Dr. Mithika Mwenda, Executive Director and Co-founder of PACJA, during the Pre-African Climate Summit II (ACS2) Non-State Actors Convening.

This partnership brings together two of the continent’s most influential institutions in climate action. ARIN is a leading research network that works at the intersection of science, policy, and practice, with a strong track record in generating evidence to inform climate and development policies across Africa. It leads pioneering initiatives such as the Locally-led Adaptation Metrics for Africa (LAMA) and the Africa State of Adaptation Report 2025. PACJA, on its part, is Africa’s foremost civil society coalition on climate justice, with deep grassroots networks, policy influence across the continent, and a firm commitment to amplifying the voices of the vulnerable.

The MoU marks a strategic alignment between Africa’s climate research and advocacy engines. It outlines collaboration on joint research, policy engagement, professional training, and institutional capacity building. The partnership will also promote inclusive innovations and knowledge sharing, ensuring that solutions are homegrown and responsive to the realities of African communities. Both institutions are committed to embedding research and evidence into climate advocacy and to ensuring that local voices inform policy dialogues at all levels.

This agreement sets the foundation for long-term collaboration and stronger interventions in climate resilience and justice, especially as Africa gears up for key global milestones such as Africa Climate Week, COP30, and the second Africa Climate Summit (ACS II).

The event was witnessed by a broad representation of civil society actors, researchers, intergovernmental organizations, development partners, and private sector stakeholders, all of whom recognized the significance of uniting scientific knowledge with grassroots advocacy to shape Africa’s climate future.

@ARIN Press 2025