The global debate on climate change and transition to clean sustainable energy systems has gained momentum yet national and regional contextual challenges and capacities in effectively managing and achieving the set global decarbonization targets clearly exist.

Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Program

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, with global emissions at their highest in history and poor countries like Tanzania facing the most severe impacts. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, irregular rainfall, floods, desertification, and biodiversity loss are already undermining livelihoods, health, and development gains.

Although Tanzania contributes little to global emissions, it is highly vulnerable. The level of desertification and loss of forest cover on sensitive biodiversity supporting  ecosystems and habitats to unique plants and animals is high. The country needs urgent adaptation and investment in clean, sustainable energy to meet industrial and population demands. While Tanzania has vast potential in solar, wind, and other renewables, financing and technology support remain limited. At the same time, global climate negotiations often place unfair burdens on less developed countries, expecting them to transition at the same pace as major polluters without adequate support. Government’s efforts to address climate change mitigation and meet  global targets through its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) plan faces significant financing gaps. Tanzania requires about USD19.2billion to finance its NDC plans. Cumulatively Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya require about USD109.3bln to finance their NDCs.

Moreover climate change discussions are disconnected from local contexts and  often run contrary to poor people and country’s energy needs. Government efforts, policy direction and position on these issues is not yet widely known to citizens.  Citizens engagement, national and global advocacy for action and accountability is improved climate change and future energy needs.

Our program strengthens national and regional responses to climate change and the global energy transition through research, advocacy, training, and capacity building. We provide knowledge and skills to citizens, policymakers, and communities to engage effectively in climate governance and adopt clean energy solutions.

Our focus areas include:

  • Climate Change and Just Transition – promoting fair, inclusive pathways to decarbonization.

  • Sustainable Energy Systems & Clean Energy – supporting renewable energy adoption and energy access.

  • Energy Policy, Green Economy Financing & Skills Development – bridging policy and financing gaps while equipping stakeholders with the skills needed for a low-carbon future.

Training and Skills outcomes

Through our annual short courses programs, we equip citizens, policymakers, civil society, and community leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to climate change and drive a just energy transition. Our short training and skilling initiatives focus on:

  • Policy & Governance Skills – enabling stakeholders to understand, influence, and implement climate and energy policies.

  • Technical Capacity – building practical skills on renewable energy technologies, sustainable energy systems, and adaptation practices.

  • Advocacy & Awareness – strengthening citizen voice, civic action, and public engagement in climate governance.

  • Green Economy Competencies – preparing communities and youth to tap into opportunities in emerging low-carbon sectors for jobs and livelihoods.

Who we train:

  • Policymakers and government officials

  • Civil society and community organizations

  • Youth, women, and grassroots leaders

  • Media practitioners and educators

  • Young professionals undertaking research or seeking skills for future careers in the climate change and energy sector

By combining research, advocacy, and hands-on skills development, we help ensure Tanzania and the region are better prepared to meet climate challenges while unlocking opportunities in the green economy.