Africa has a unique role in shaping and restoring the future of our planet.
Its countries are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, but the continent has a growing reputation for accelerating environmental innovation. Ground-breaking solutions, that are not just local but have the potential to inspire the world, are emerging every day.
We have seen first-hand some of these ideas being developed with seven Earthshot Prize Finalists so far based in Africa. These include Kenya-based Sanergy, Roam and Mukuru Clean Stoves, ABALOBI from South Africa, Freetown the Treetown from Sierra Leone, Pole Pole Foundation from Congo and Reeddi Capsules from Nigeria.
And with over 400 nominations received for this year’s Earthshot Prize from all over the continent, with 100 alone coming from Kenya, the future of African environmental innovation is incredibly exciting.
As we look forward towards our 2024 Awards and Earthshot Week in Cape Town this November, we want to shine a light on this innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity.
On a recent trip to Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal, we had the privilege of meeting just some of the African changemakers who are making waves with their solutions.
These innovators are not only helping their communities but are repairing our planet and paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for all. Their contributions highlight the critical role Africa plays in the global effort to tackle environmental challenges.
The Earthshot Prize is always looking to represent those ready to move the needle on climate change action. Be they women-led solutions, indigenous community projects or the global youth whose lives stand to be impacted more than many.
A core part of our work to engage with and champion young African innovators is centred around our close partnership with Earthshot Prize Global Alliance member, MultiChoice. Their Talent Factory has trained hundreds of filmmaking and creative students, uncovering the next generation of African storytellers.
Created by Africans, for Africans and beyond, these stories will be instrumental in shaping our collective environmental future. We are excited to use our platform to help amplify them on the global stage over the coming months.
Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight the incredible work happening across Africa and prepare to celebrate game-changing African innovation at the 2024 Earthshot Prize Awards in Cape Town.
