Galvanising and Unifying Africa’s Action for Resilient Development in the Era of the Pandemic

The Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) has launched an ambitious project titled “Galvanising and Unifying Africa’s Action for Resilient Development in the Era of the Pandemic” (GUARD). This initiative aims to accelerate the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and overall climate action across the continent, while also addressing the compounded impacts of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Implimenting Organization

Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA)

Lead Expert

Eugene N. Nforngwa,
Thematic Lead Just Transition and Energy Access

Contact Info

Address: Rue 7740 Kirbi Road BP 31493, Yaoundé, Cameroon
Mobile: +237 675 114 396
Email: eugene.nforngwa@pacja.org
eugene@acsea54.org

Aim of this project

The primary aim of the GUARD initiative is to catalyse conversations that accelerate the implementation of NDCs and enhance overall climate action in Africa. This involves advocating for just climate financing, promoting green energy, and ensuring a just recovery from the impacts of climate change and COVID-19.

Rationale and Obejctives

Advocating for equitable funding mechanisms to support climate resilience and adaptation projects.

Promoting the transition to green energy and sustainable practices as part of the recovery from COVID-19 and climate impacts.

Enhancing the capacity of civil society organizations (CSOs) and PACJA’s Secretariat to influence climate policy and action.

Embedding a strong learning agenda within media engagement to raise public awareness about climate issues and solutions.

Ensuring that women, girls, and youth have access to resilient livelihood opportunities and decent employment, free from vulnerabilities that impede their progress.

Consolidate and unify the efforts of civil society, non-state actors (NSAs), and governments to create a cohesive approach to climate action.

Promote inclusive practices that will have a lasting influence on climate resilience and development.

Lobby policymakers at national and regional levels to eliminate barriers that hinder vulnerable groups’ access to resilient livelihoods and decent employment.

Key Components and Activities

Promotion Of Green Energy

The initiative will push for fair and just allocation of climate finance to ensure that funds reach the communities most affected by climate change. This includes lobbying for international support and holding governments accountable for their climate finance commitments.

Promotion Of Green Energy

GUARD will support the transition to renewable energy sources across Africa. This involves training programs for local communities on the benefits and implementation of green energy solutions, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.

Institutional Strengthening

PACJA aims to fortify its network of CSOs by providing them with the tools and resources needed to amplify their advocacy efforts. This includes capacity-building workshops, strategic planning sessions, and the establishment of a robust support system for climate action initiatives.

Public Awareness And Media Engagement

A strong focus on media engagement will help raise public awareness about the importance of climate action. Through targeted campaigns, educational programs, and collaboration with journalists, the initiative seeks to inform and engage the broader public on climate issues.

Inclusive Climate Resilience Practices

Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the GUARD initiative will work to ensure that women, girls, and youth are actively involved in climate resilience efforts. This includes providing them with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a changing climate and advocating for policies that remove systemic barriers to their participation.

Expected Outcomes

The GUARD initiative is expected to yield several significant outcomes

Enhanced Climate Resilience

Improved ability of communities to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Increased Public Awareness

Greater understanding and engagement of the public in climate action efforts.

Strengthened Civil Society

More robust and capable CSOs that can effectively advocate for and implement climate solutions.

Policy Changes

Legislative and policy reforms that support inclusive, sustainable development and climate resilience.

Sustainable Livelihoods

Creation of resilient and sustainable livelihood opportunities for vulnerable populations, particularly women, girls, and youth.


The GUARD initiative by PACJA represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the dual challenges of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. By mobilizing and unifying efforts across the continent, advocating for just climate financing, promoting green energy, and ensuring inclusive development practices, GUARD aims to create a resilient and sustainable future for all Africans.
Eugene N NforngwaThematic Lead Just Transition and Energy Access