The Science for Africa (SFA) Foundation has been officially admitted as an Observer Organisation to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The announcement was made during the IPCC’s 63rd Session, held from 27–30 October 2025 in Lima, Peru.
The new designation positions the SFA Foundation as a conduit for amplifying African scientific leadership and policy engagement in one of the world’s most critical decision-making arenas on climate change. As an Observer Organisation, SFA will now have the capacity to contribute experts, participate in plenary discussions, and ensure that African perspectives, data, and innovations inform future IPCC assessments and reports.
The inclusion of the SFA Foundation in the IPCC signals a shift toward greater equity in the global climate knowledge ecosystem. Historically, African scientists and institutions have been underrepresented in international climate assessments, despite the continent being among the most vulnerable to climate impacts.
“This milestone underscores Africa’s growing scientific and policy capacity to not just respond to climate challenges but to shape the global narrative and solutions,” said Dr. Tom Kariuki, CEO of the Science for Africa Foundation. “Through this platform, we can ensure African evidence informs global decisions that directly affect our people, economies, and ecosystems.”
For decades, systemic barriers including limited research infrastructure, fragmented data systems, and unequal access to international networks, have hindered Africa’s contribution to global climate science. SFA’s new role seeks to directly confront these challenges.
By leveraging its partnerships across the continent, SFA plans to mobilize researchers, strengthen institutional capacities, and facilitate data-sharing frameworks that reflect Africa’s realities. The Foundation’s participation in IPCC processes will also help elevate emerging research on topics such as climate resilience, adaptation financing, and indigenous knowledge systems areas often overlooked in global assessments.
Founded to advance science-led innovation across Africa, the SFA Foundation’s mandate extends beyond research funding. Its vision“From Science to Impact”emphasizes translating knowledge into tangible societal outcomes. The IPCC observer status amplifies that mission by embedding African scientific leadership within global decision-making processes that shape climate policy, adaptation strategies, and sustainable development goals.
By securing a seat at the IPCC table, the SFA Foundation is not only advancing its mission but also helping redefine Africa’s place in the global climate discourse from a continent often spoken about to one that speaks for itself.
Article by RB reporter
Photo courtesy / SFA
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