The African Union-African Scientific Research and Innovation Council (AU-ASRIC) says it will collaborate with the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES) to create and promote safer environments in Africa.
The collaboration, under the aegis of the African Environmental Society (AES), would seek to address critical environmental challenges facing the continent.
The Executive Director of the African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission (AU-STRC), Engr. Dr. Ahmed Hamdy, said this on Monday in Abuja while addressing newsmen.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that AU-ASRIC is a specialised advisory institution under the AU-STRC.
He said Africa was faced with mounting environmental crises that ranged from desertification to pollution and urged a unified action against the challenges.
“The AES is envisioned as a powerful continental scientific body, uniting experts and agencies to tackle environmental issues.
“This initiative signifies a collective commitment to a sustainable future, where diverse actors work together to protect the environment, conserve natural resources, and build a healthier and more prosperous continent for all.
“The challenges are immense, but our crucial role will be to provide independent, reliable information and act as a strong advocate for environmental protection across Africa,” he said.
The AU-STRC chief said that AES would unite experts across the continent to tackle critical environmental challenges, protect the planet, and build Africa’s environmental future.
He emphasised that AES was a direct response to the urgent need for coordinated and effective strategies to mitigate the continent’s environmental vulnerabilities.
Hamdy said that 10 environmental societies from 10 different AU member states had committed to participate in the initiative, adding that it was strong support for the project.
“By uniting experts from diverse fields and across numerous African Union member states, the AES will ensure a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges and their context-specific solutions,” he said.
He said the milestone underscored the recognition of the need for a unified continental approach to environmental management and conservation.
“This collaborative approach will lead to more effective, evidence-based policies that address the unique environmental vulnerabilities of different regions within Africa.
“This collective commitment signals a shared urgency to address Africa’s environmental challenges.
“The AES will act as a unified voice, advocating for stronger environmental regulations, increased investment in sustainable practices, and greater international cooperation,” Hamdy said.
