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» Download the 2024 CAFE information pack here.
In a bid to bolster environmental conservation efforts across the African continent, the Consortium of African Funds for the Environment (CAFE) is set to host its highly anticipated annual gathering in Swakopmund, Namibia. Scheduled to take place from the 2nd to the 6th of September 2024 at the Plaza Hotel, this event promises to be a pivotal moment for stakeholders committed to safeguarding Africa’s rich biodiversity.
Organized by CAFE in collaboration with the Community Conservation Fund of Namibia (CCFN), the 2024 edition of the consortium represents a significant milestone in the ongoing collective efforts to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development on the continent.
Vision, Mission, and Objectives of CAFE:
Established as a network of Conservation Trust Funds (CTFs), CAFE is driven by a clear vision, mission, and set of objectives aimed at catalyzing positive change in the realm of environmental conservation. With 18 member funds currently under its umbrella, managing over USD 300 million in endowments and additional donor financing, CAFE is poised to make a lasting impact.
Vision:
To foster a resilient and thriving natural environment across Africa, for the benefit of present and future generations.
Mission:
To strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of Conservation Trust Funds (CTFs) in Africa through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic partnerships.
Objectives:
Facilitate collaboration and networking among member funds to enhance knowledge exchange and best practices in environmental conservation.
Build institutional capacity within CTFs to optimize their impact and sustainability.
Advocate for increased investment in conservation efforts and sustainable development initiatives across Africa.
Foster partnerships with governments, NGOs, private sector entities, and other stakeholders to advance common conservation goals.
Promote innovation and adaptability in conservation strategies to address emerging environmental challenges.
Highlights of the CAFE 2024 Consortium:
Thematic Workshops and Panel Discussions: The consortium will feature a series of thematic workshops and panel discussions, covering a wide range of topics including biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, sustainable financing mechanisms, community engagement, and the role of technology in conservation.
Networking Opportunities: Participants will have ample opportunities to network with fellow conservation practitioners, donors, policymakers, and experts from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Field Visits: Attendees will have the chance to embark on field visits to conservation projects and protected areas in Namibia, providing firsthand insights into successful conservation initiatives and the challenges faced on the ground.
Capacity Building Sessions: Specialized capacity building sessions will be offered to enhance the skills and expertise of conservation professionals, equipping them with the tools necessary to navigate complex conservation landscapes effectively.
High-Level Plenaries: The consortium will feature high-level plenary sessions where key stakeholders will come together to discuss strategic priorities, policy frameworks, and innovative approaches to address pressing environmental issues facing Africa.
As Africa continues to grapple with environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and the impacts of climate change, the importance of collective action and collaboration cannot be overstated. The CAFE 2024 Consortium stands as a beacon of hope, uniting conservation leaders and practitioners in a shared mission to safeguard Africa’s natural heritage for generations to come. Through synergy, innovation, and unwavering commitment, CAFE and its partners are paving the way for a sustainable and resilient future for Africa’s people and its precious ecosystems.