Devising effective policies to clean up our fossil-fuel-based economies requires a combination of technical, economic, and political expertise. But government agencies are often understaffed and underfunded, underscoring the need for NGOs to provide regulators with critical data and technical know-how.
The Paris climate agreement, concluded in 2015, has been instrumental in rallying countries around the world to commit to reducing greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions. But setting ambitious climate targets has not always resulted in meaningful action. The United Nations’ recent “global stocktake” report shows that we are falling short of the drastic cuts needed to achieve climate stability, underscoring the urgent need for governments to act swiftly and decisively to keep global warming within safe limits.
As former regulators, we are confident that developing effective solutions is still feasible. While four economic sectors – industry, transportation, electricity, and buildings – account for 75% of global GHG emissions, well-designed public policies could effectively reduce pollution from these sectors, promote consumer savings, safeguard public health, and stimulate sustainable economic growth. But crafting effective policies to transform our fossil-fuel-based economies in time to avert climate catastrophe and meet humanity’s energy needs is a daunting task. Tackling it head-on requires a combination of technical, economic, and political expertise, along with significant financial resources and labor, but the agencies charged with devising and implementing these critical policies are understaffed and underfunded. Too often, regulators have no choice but to rely on the information provided to them by the very industries they are charged with overseeing. This dynamic can result in weak regulation and missed policy objectives. Crucially, independent NGOs can diminish this power imbalance by providing policymakers with the information and technical know-how they need to design robust regulations that reduce harmful emissions effectively. The US Environmental Protection Agency’s efforts to reduce truck pollution are a case in point. In 2016, when the EPA was drafting rules to limit GHG emissions from heavy-duty vehicles, like commercial trucks, various industry bodies provided policymakers with contradictory data. The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), an independent think tank, undertook its own comprehensive study, which included detailed cost projections for the proposed regulations. The ICCT’s impartial analysis provided the EPA with data demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of a stringent pollution standard. Consequently, these regulations are expected to result in emission cuts equivalent to 294 coal plants, save truck owners $170 billion in fuel costs, and prevent up to $209 billion in damages over the next 30 years, positioning the United States as a world leader in truck efficiency.
Since then, the ICCT has assisted several governments in crafting regulations to improve commercial-truck efficiency. Using the organization’s research, the European Commission drafted its first-ever rule targeting pollution from commercial trucks, which is projected to reduce truck emissions by 150 million tons by 2035. Specialized NGOs can also assist emerging economies, particularly those with fewer resources, in kickstarting transformative climate programs. By facilitating the rapid adoption of clean-energy solutions, such organizations can increase access to affordable, pollution-free electricity. Moreover, rules that promote the use of cutting-edge technologies can foster innovation, enhance competitiveness, and help countries position themselves as climate leaders, benefiting their people and the planet. In 2006, for example, India launched a nationwide appliance-efficiency program. Through a dedicated division of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), officials collaborated with NGOs such as CLASP (formerly known as the Collaborative Labeling and Appliance Standards Program) to adapt key features from successful efficiency-labeling programs to the Indian market. CLASP’s in-depth analysis also helped the BEE identify which appliances it should focus on. These insights enabled the BEE to launch its star labeling program rapidly. The agency then collaborated with another NGO, The Energy and Resources Institute, to develop an efficiency program tailored for small businesses. By facilitating cooperation with business leaders, TERI played a pivotal role in creating robust and cost-effective efficiency rules. Since its launch, India’s appliance-labeling program has offset 400 million tons of GHG emissions – roughly equivalent to the annual emissions from India’s transportation sector – and is projected to account for 30% of the country’s emissions reduction by 2030. In addition, India has established itself as a leading manufacturer of energy-efficient air conditioners, owing to the growing demand for sustainable cooling solutions amid rising global temperatures. With efficiency programs cutting corporate emissions by 105 million tons annually, Indian industry now ranks among the world’s most energy-efficient. Although such activities rarely attract significant attention, unbiased research provides regulators with the data they need to devise transparent and effective environmental policies. Technical assistance from independent NGOs can lay the groundwork for the policy successes needed to overcome the climate crisis. As developing and developed economies enhance their state capacities, they will grow more confident in setting ambitious targets, creating a virtuous cycle. Given the right support, we can ensure that the world’s next climate-action report card features grades that make future generations proud.
Christopher Grundler is Senior Adviser to the Crux Alliance, served at the US Environmental Protection Agency for more than 40 years, leading the Office of Transportation and Air Quality from 2012-19.
Ajay Mathur is a former director general of the Indian Bureau of Energy Efficiency, is Director General of the International Solar Alliance.
Africa Travel Week (ATW) is inviting all travel and tourism media to submit their entries for the Africa Travel Week Media Awards by 30 January 2024. We also encourage nominations from the public for journalists whose work has significantly impacted travel journalism.
Now in its inaugural year, the ATW Media Awards 2024 are set to recognise top-tier travel journalism spotlighting Africa’s tourism landscape. As travel narratives continue to influence global perceptions, these awards champion the media professionals capturing Africa’s essence through compelling stories, striking imagery, and immersive videos.
The awards are open to all media practitioners, including journalists, bloggers, videographers, and photographers who produce content related to African tourism. Participants in the Africa Travel Week Media Awards may submit as many entries as they wish in four award categories at no charge. These include:
Sustainability Feature Award
Visual Tourism Award
Destination Feature Award
Tourism News Award
“The media plays a vital role in driving growth across Africa’s tourism industry while keeping us informed, updated, and inspired,” says Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director – Travel, Tourism & RX Africa Marketing.
“This is our chance to show appreciation to those who strive to share our continent’s travel news, remarkable stories, and experiences through outstanding journalism, captivating narratives, and imagery,” she adds.
All entries provided must have appeared in print or online between 1 January 2023 and 30 January 2024. Winners will be announced at the Africa Travel Week Travel Leaders Lunch. The date and location of the announcement will be communicated in advance.
“As a winner or finalist, participating in the Africa Travel Week Media Awards provides an opportunity to celebrate your hard work, enhance your reputation, and network with industry leaders from around the world,” De Jager adds.
“If you’re sitting on an exceptional piece of content related to African tourism, we’d love to see it. Don’t miss your chance to be recognised and to help shine a spotlight on Africa as a destination brimming with remarkable wildlife, places, and people,” she concludes.
Gold finalists in Africa’s Regional Responsible Tourism Awards win five out of eight categories in 2023 Global Responsible Tourism Awards
Official winners from Africa include Lemala, Ngwenya Glass, Uthando, Weeva, & Wildlife Act
Africa has made a significant impact at the 2023 Global Responsible Tourism Awards, securing wins in five out of eight categories. This achievement highlights the continent’s growing influence and commitment to sustainable travel practices.
Harold Goodwin, Managing Director of the Responsible Tourism Partnership, revealed the winners, spotlighting the achievements of Lemala, Ngwenya Glass, Uthando, Weeva, and Wildlife Act from the continent.
“We set very specific award categories and always ask for hard evidence of why that applicant feels they deserve to win,” explains Goodwin. “We also make sure that judging is done by people who have a strong knowledge of sustainability in that area. We believe this process shines a light on really exceptional examples of responsible tourism around the world.”
The awards drew a competitive field of gold finalists from regions including Africa, India, and Latin America, all of whom had previously triumphed in the Regional World Responsible Tourism Awards. The African organizations recognized in the 2023 awards are:
Lemala – Best for Tackling Plastic Waste – Tanzania
Ngwenya Glass – Best for Local Sourcing Craft and Food – Eswatini
Rede Batuc – Best for Diversity and Inclusion – Brazil
RT Mission Kerala, Best for Local Sourcing Craft and Food – India
Soar Excursions, Best for Meaningful Connections – India
Uthando – Best for Meaningful Connections – South Africa
Weeva – Best for Addressing Climate Change – Global, out of Africa
Wildlife Act – Best for Nature-Based Tourism – South Africa
“Congratulations to all the winners on their well-deserved success. Your relentless passion and commitment to driving sustainability in tourism is truly inspiring,” says Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director – Travel, Tourism & RX Africa Marketing.
“Considering the rigorous judging criteria, we are especially excited to acknowledge and celebrate our regional finalists, who secured first place in five out of the eight categories.”
“The WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards not only showcase the best of the best in responsible tourism, but sets the compass for our global industry in creating sustainable travel and holiday experiences,” De Jager adds.
In light of these achievements, Africa Travel Week is now inviting applications for the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2024, seeking to build on the continent’s strong performance and leadership in responsible tourism.
“As we turn the corner to the New Year, we’re calling all sustainability champions and changemakers to help carry the flame for responsible tourism and represent Africa on the global stage,” she concludes.
AECF (Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund) is a leading non-profit development organisation supporting innovative agribusiness and renewable energy enterprises to reduce rural poverty, promote resilient communities and create jobs.
The organization catalyzes the private sector by surfacing and commercialising new ideas, business models, and technologies designed to increase agricultural productivity, improve farmer incomes, expand clean energy access, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance resilience to the effects of climate change. AECF also provides catalytic funding to high-risk businesses that struggle to access commercial funding and are are committed to working in frontier markets, fragile contexts, and high-risk economies where few mainstream financing institutions dare to go.
Capital caught up with Victoria Sabula who is the CEO of AECF to talk about how AECF is scaling up its financing, advisory services, investment support, and knowledge services to catalyze greater work of 500 African SMEs and improve the lives of 10 million rural Africans by 2026. Excerpts;
Capital:What is the primary mission and vision of The Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund, and how does it contribute to promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable development in Africa?
Victoria Sabula: In a continent full of untapped potential, AECF (Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund) fosters entrepreneurship and sustainable development with a clear vision to “build a prosperous, enterprising, and resilient Africa” and a mission “to catalyse, grow, and improve the resilience of private sector enterprises for the benefit of rural and marginalised communities in Africa.”
AECF’s commitment to building resilience in the agriculture and renewable energy sectors is underpinned by a focus on empowering and uplifting the most vulnerable and marginalized segments of Africa’s rural and underserved communities, particularly women, youth, and those residing in fragile states and contexts.
With a dedication to addressing gender-based inequalities that obstruct progress in these sectors, AECF strives to combat the scourge of youth unemployment that threatens to undermine communities in Africa. The overarching goal is to challenge the prevailing structural bias in society by fostering empowerment and creating job opportunities.
Operating in fragile contexts, AECF exhibits courage and conviction in advocating for the rights and potential of individuals in these communities, recognizing their worth as equal to those in flourishing economies. AECF’s prowess in entering nascent markets enables the organization to de-risk and attract investments, thus fostering progress and stability in conflict-affected environments.
AECF has positively influenced over 4 million lives, generated more than 795 new jobs, and facilitated approximately US$ 5.8 million in wages in fragile, frontier markets since 2012, ultimately contributing to a total benefit of around US$ 25.6 million.
At its core, the AECF envisions a future where sustainable businesses take centre stage in championing systems that work, especially in rural Africa and to fight against poverty. To realize this ambitious goal, the organization employs a multifaceted approach that combines financial support, innovation, and community empowerment.
One of the primary ways the AECF contributes to promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable development in Africa is by providing grant and debt financing to innovative business ideas. These funds are not just distributed haphazardly; they are strategically directed towards initiatives that hold the potential to make a significant impact on local communities and economies. By investing in these enterprises, the AECF jumpstarts economic growth, creates employment opportunities, and empowers marginalized populations who might otherwise be left behind. AECF seeks out and supports groundbreaking ideas that have the power to transform sectors ranging from agriculture and renewable energy to technology.
Importantly, the AECF’s commitment to sustainable development goes beyond the financial aspect. It involves capacity building, mentorship, and market linkages, providing budding entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. This holistic approach not only helps businesses succeed but also contributes to the resilience of these enterprises, which are essential for long-term prosperity in Africa.
Capital: Could you highlight some successful projects or initiatives supported by AECF that have had a significant impact on local communities or economies in Africa?
Victoria Sabula: In the face of global challenges, AECF remains steadfast in its commitment to catalysing private sector investments that benefit rural and marginalised communities in Africa. Despite recent formidable hurdles, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the lingering effects of COVID-19, and the escalating climate crisis, AECF has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability in its pursuit of sustainable development.
AECF has successfully implemented a range of programmes that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a significant positive impact on the lives of millions in Africa. Below are some of the successful programmes of AECF.
Agribusiness
AECF’s dedication to agriculture has yielded significant progress, resulting in increased crop yields and improved food security for numerous farming communities. These efforts have played a pivotal role in addressing the pressing challenge of food security across the African continent.
Through its investments and support in agribusiness across sub-Saharan Africa, AECF has prioritized diverse agriculture value chains, fostering sustainable growth and innovation in numerous countries, including South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, and Ethiopia, among others. These programs have empowered smallholder farmers, enhancing their production and productivity, thereby contributing to regional economic growth.
Renewable energy
AECF’s investments in the renewable energy sector have been nothing short of transformative. The Renewable Energy Access for All in Sub-Saharan Africa (REACT SSA) portfolio reached over 80% of its target, positively impacting households with renewable energy. This expansion contributed to a doubling of jobs, a tripling of SMEs, and a significant development impact increase, totalling nearly US$40 million. These investments have reduced dependence on fossil fuels, ensuring improved access to clean and affordable energy across the continent.
Investing in women
AECF has fostered an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs to thrive, addressing the unique challenges faced by these groups in accessing financial inclusion and economic empowerment through the programmes such as Investing In Women in the Blue Economy in Kenya (IIW-BEK), Investing In Women in Nigeria (IIW-Nigeria), Investing In Women in South Sudan (IIW-South Sudan) and Financial Inclusion for Growth in Somalia (FIG-Somalia) programmes, just to mention a few.
By the end of 2022, AECF’s impact was profound and far-reaching, with over 31 million lives positively impacted and significant growth in its Active Investor Portfolio. The organization’s strategic focus on agriculture, renewable energy, financial inclusion, gender equality, and climate resilience has contributed to improved livelihoods, economic growth, and sustainable development in Africa.
Capital: In your opinion, what are the key challenges and opportunities for African entrepreneurs and businesses in accessing finance and scaling their operations? How does AECF address these challenges?
Victoria Sabula: The key challenges for African entrepreneurs and businesses in accessing finance and scaling their operations:
Limited access to capital: African entrepreneurs often face challenges in accessing adequate capital, especially in the early stages of their ventures. Traditional financing options may be limited or come with high interest rates, making it difficult to secure the necessary funds for business expansion.
High Interest Rates: Can make it difficult for businesses to secure affordable capital for expansion and can significantly impact their ability to compete in the market. These rates are often driven by factors such as perceived risk, inflation, and the scarcity of creditworthy borrowers.
High risk: Many African countries are perceived as high-risk environments for investment due to political instability, regulatory uncertainties, and economic volatility. This perception can deter potential investors and lenders from supporting local businesses.
The opportunities we see for African entrepreneurs and businesses:
Growing consumer market: Africa’s population is rapidly growing, providing a substantial consumer market for businesses across various sectors.
Natural resources: The continent is rich in natural resources, offering opportunities for businesses in agriculture, mining, and renewable energy.
Technology and innovation: There is a growing tech-savvy population in Africa, and innovations like mobile banking and e-commerce are creating new avenues for businesses to reach customers and operate more efficiently.
Youthful workforce: Africa has a young and increasingly educated workforce, which can be a source of innovation and productivity for businesses.
Regional integration: Initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aim to promote intra-Africa trade, potentially opening up larger markets for businesses.
How AECF Addresses these challenges:
Patient capital: AECF provides patient capital to businesses, including grants and zero-interest loans, reducing the financial burden on entrepreneurs and allowing them to focus on growth.
Risk mitigation: AECF works to mitigate investment risks through careful due diligence, providing technical assistance to businesses, and fostering an enabling environment for investment.
Technical assistance: AECF offers advisory services to help businesses develop sustainable models and improve their financial literacy. This support equips entrepreneurs with the skills needed to manage their finances effectively.
Innovation and technology: AECF supports innovative business models and technology-driven solutions, enabling entrepreneurs to leverage advancements in digital technology and reach broader markets.
Regional programs: AECF’s regional programs and initiatives promote cross-border collaboration and help businesses navigate regulatory differences, making it easier for them to expand regionally.
Sectoral focus: AECF targets specific sectors critical to Africa’s development, such as agriculture and renewable energy, aligning investments with the continent’s pressing needs.
Capital: How does AECF collaborate with other stakeholders, such as governments, development agencies, and private sector partners, to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and investment in Africa?
Victoria Sabula: AECF’s core mission revolves around four pivotal pillars; advisory services, investment support and knowledge and insights sharing. These pillars form the bedrock of AECF’s work focus, highlighting a collaborative approach and dedication to making a meaningful impact across the continent.
An example of AECF’s financing pillar is the “Renewable Energy and Adaptation to Climate Technologies (REACT)” window. This initiative extends funding to businesses engaged in developing renewable energy and climate adaptation solutions, fostering collaboration to address energy access and climate challenges in Africa.
The “Investing in Women in South Sudan (IIW-SS)” program stands as a testament to AECF’s dedication to advisory services. Collaboratively, this initiative offers advisory support to women in South Sudan, amplifying their participation in diverse agricultural value chains and enhancing their economic resilience.
The “Agribusiness in Africa Window (AAW),” comprising multiple investment rounds, exemplifies AECF’s commitment to investment support. It vigorously invests in diverse agribusinesses across Africa, engaging in a collaborative effort to provide capital and support, thereby generating employment opportunities and enhancing livelihoods in the agricultural sector.
AECF’s commitment to knowledge and insights sharing is evident in the work with research organizations to put together disseminate knowledge about initiatives, impact, financial, support to policymakers and businesses in making informed decisions regarding vulnerable populations.
By working closely with governments to advocate for policy reforms that promote a business-friendly regulatory environment, collaborating with development agencies to leverage resources and expertise and engages private sector partners to foster innovation and investment in development initiatives, AECF recognizes the importance of using research and sector specific knowledge, and collaboration to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and investment in Africa.
Capital: Could you share some insights into the specific sectors or industries that AECF focuses on? How does it identify priority sectors and align its support with the needs of African economies?
Victoria Sabula: AECF focuses on Agribusiness, Renewable Energy and cross-cutting sectors with the potential for high impact and alignment with African development needs. By conducting rigorous market assessments and engage with local and regional stakeholders to identify priority sectors, AECF can align support and resources. Common areas of focus include agriculture, renewable energy, and financial services. By positioning their support with these sectors, AECF aims to drive sustainable growth and address pressing development challenges for local communities.
Capital: What are the future plans and strategic priorities for AECF? Are there any new initiatives or partnerships on the horizon that will further enhance its impact and reach?
Victoria Sabula: AECF’s future plans involve expanding reach to support more early-stage businesses, particularly those in underserved regions. AECF is continuously seeking partnerships with funders, governments, development partners and private sector enterprises to enhance their impact. AECF is committed to adapting its strategies to meet evolving development needs and maximize its contribution to Africa’s growth.
Capital: How can African entrepreneurs and businesses get involved with AECF? What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs seeking funding and support for their ventures?
Victoria Sabula: African entrepreneurs and businesses can engage with AECF by regularly visiting their website and monitoring calls for proposals, active programmes and opportunities for partnerships and even reaching out with ideas for synergies. AECF offers various funding opportunities and competitions, which typically require applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria. Aspiring entrepreneurs should prepare well-structured business plans, demonstrate a clear understanding of their target markets, and focus on creating sustainable impact. Building a strong professional network and seeking mentorship can also improve their chances of securing support from organizations like AECF.
