<\/p>\n
ACCESS Coalition organized a capacity development session on effective energy and climate change advocacy for civil society organizations (CSOs) on May 2, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya.<\/p>\n
The goal of the session was to equip the CSO participants with skills and tools that would improve their advocacy practice on SDG 7 implementation and ensure a socially just renewable energy transition.<\/p>\n
CSOs are at the forefront of implementing energy projects, pushing for more concrete global commitments and their implementation, which will fast-track energy access, energy transition, and climate action globally. They also ensure community voices and their interests are prioritized by stakeholders.<\/p>\n
Wangari Muchiri, Africa Director for the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), gave the keynote address. She shared insights on energizing a just transition for Africa and highlighted, “Renewable energy presents an opportunity for Africa to leapfrog to sustainable energy, create jobs, and address the climate crisis.” She urged stakeholders to seize the opportunity and take concrete actions to accelerate renewable energy adoption on the continent by developing effective advocacy plans.<\/p>\n
Martin Mutembei, Programme Manager, Strathmore Energy Research Centre, spoke on the role of research evidence in CSO advocacy. He indicated that research can support CSOs in fostering informed dialogue within communities. “There’s a need for developing informed advocacy strategies based on thorough research, particularly on complex issues such as ecological impact assessments of energy projects,” he said.<\/p>\n
The participants were challenged to examine the role of research evidence in communications advocacy and policy-making processes in the energy access, energy transition, and climate change sub-sectors.<\/p>\n
In his remarks, John Kioli, Chairman, Kenya Climate Change Working Group (KCCWG), stated, “civil society organizations should avoid using jargon when communicating about energy and climate change issues. They should simplify energy information and make it as appealing to the public and attention-grabbing as political news.” Patricia Mbogo, International Coordinator, ACCESS Coalition, emphasized that CSOs play a critical role in amplifying marginalized voices for an equitable energy transition.<\/p>\n
During a panel discussion on framing impactful digital stories that influence SDG 7 implementation, Prudence Lihabi from the Office of the First Lady-Kenya underscored the significance of framing energy information in ways that resonate with grassroots communities. She stressed the importance of respecting community needs and preferences and advocating for tailored approaches that prioritize community interests. She also highlighted the value of utilizing local media and alternative communication formats to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.<\/p>\n
Florence Gichoya, Communications and Membership Manager, ACCESS Coalition, trained the participants on the art of digital storytelling and how CSOs can shape ideas into compelling and well-structured narratives for different audiences and facilitate the desired change. “CSOs have a key role in influencing policies, promoting awareness, holding government and institutions to account, and highlighting the energy needs of communities,” she said.<\/p>\n
Communication advocacy is critical to influencing policies on energy access and transitions. It enables people to better understand issues by creating awareness, educating the greater community, and fostering collaborations and partnerships.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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