Nairobi, Kenya - The African Natural Capital Alliance (ANCA) is an African-led collaborative multi-stakeholder initiative, acting as the vehicle to drive coordinated advocacy and action across the continent. ANCA was established in 2022 by FSD Africa out of a need to ensure an African Voice on the global nature agenda. With growing global interest in nature, including in the development of nature-related risk frameworks and standards, there is an urgent need to ensure these emerging approaches can be applied to an African context.

ANCA recognizes the need for African private and public sector awareness and capability-building for the successful integration of not only future nature-related risk frameworks and standards, but also broader nature-related capabilities. Without engagement on these topics, there is a danger of creating additional transition risks and barriers to investment in the African continent.

Since 1998, the Centre for Science and Technology Innovations (CSTI) has been supporting African communities with climate adaptation and mitigation research. Climate Change is no longer an obscure topic that scientific researchers are examining. Climate Change has become that nagging and often abrupt reminder that we have to focus on health and well-being. Biodiversity loss and climate variability are linked through droughts, floods, increases in the number of extremely hot days, and the elimination of green space habitats due to urban spaces with poor planning.

CSTI will support ANCA's Regulatory Working Group by providing scientific guidance on Taskforce for Nature Related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) in the African context. Buildings, infrastructure, agricultural activities, tourism activities, mining activities, forests, savannahs, coastal systems, and public health are all adversely impacted by biodiversity loss. We work with partners who want ensure sustainable economic growth by accelerating the transition towards production and consumption solutions that utilize renewable energy, recycled and recaptured materials, reduced emissions, reduced toxins while simultaneously improving affordability and quality of life.

ANCA Nature Voices Pledge 

We, the members of the African Natural Capital Alliance (ANCA), recognizing the critical role of nature in our continent's well-being and sustainable development, pledge to uphold the following principles and commitments: 

1. Acknowledging the Importance of Nature: We acknowledge the intrinsic value of nature and the essential services it provides for all life on Earth. We understand that the preservation and restoration of natural capital are fundamental for the prosperity of present and future generations. 

2. Emphasizing the African Context: We recognize that Africa's rich biodiversity and ecosystems are unique and irreplaceable. We appreciate the significance of safeguarding and sustainably managing our natural heritage to support resilient economies, promote social equity, and enhance the quality of life for all Africans. 

3. Assuming Responsibility: We affirm our role to establish a distinct voice and actively contribute to the global conversation on nature. We commit to mobilize our resources, expertise, and influence to promote nature-positive practices within and outside of our institutions. 

In line with our commitment to a nature-positive African continent, we pledge to take the following actions: 

1. Support Nature Conservation and Restoration: We will support initiatives that conserve and restore natural habitats, protect endangered species, and enhance ecosystem services. We will aim to support local communities in doing so. 

2. Integrate Nature into Decision-Making: We will consider the impacts of our operations on ecosystems, biodiversity, striving for sustainability and resilience. We will integrate the value of nature into our business decisions. 

3. Promote Sustainable Solutions: We will explore products and services that promote nature-positive outcomes and we will encourage investment in sustainable solutions 

4. Strengthen Transparency and Reporting: We will disclose relevant information on our nature-related risks, opportunities, and initiatives. 

5. Support Alignment of Policies and Regulations: We will engage in constructive dialogue with policymakers, regulators, and industry peers to advocate for nature-centered policies, regulations, and incentives. We will support the development of frameworks that integrate the true value of nature into economic systems. 

6. Foster Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: We will actively participate in platforms, forums, and partnerships that foster collaboration and knowledge sharing on nature-related topics. 

By signing this Nature Voices Pledge, we, the members of the African Natural Capital Alliance (ANCA), commit ourselves to these principles and actions. We recognize the urgency of our mission and the transformative power of collective efforts. Together, we will contribute to a sustainable future. 

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