WSU AND UFS ON CLIMATE CHANGE

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and University of the Free State (UFS) are embarking on a unique investigation into the impact of climate change on livelihoods in the former Transkei.

The approach, which commenced in 2024, involves exploring socio-economic resilience strategies through indigenous research, a novel approach that sets the project apart. 

WSU and UFS are collaborating on a National Research Foundation (NRF)-funded study to examine the effects of climate change on livelihoods in QwaQwa and the former transkeiTranskei.

According to Professor Grace Okuthe, Leader of Sustainable Marine & Freshwater Economic Development at WSU, this project, spanning from 2024 to 2026, aims to investigate socio-economic shifts and resilience-building strategies that have evolved over the past three decades.

“The study aimed to investigate how climate change and socio-economic changes have influenced livelihood transitions and affected the resilience of communities in the former homelands of QwaQwa and Transkei. The project focused on three decades of change and employed indigenous research methodologies to understand how these communities have adapted to climate change. Furthermore, the study explored pathways to securing sustainable livelihoods in the face of climate change challenges,” Okuthe explained.

The findings of this project which have significantly contributed to the development of strategies are aimed at strengthening resilience in the Maloti Afromontane region, will enlighten communities on climate change and the impact on socio-economic resilience.

The research team collaborated closely with local communities to co-develop solutions through public engagement platforms such as Imbizo and Lekgotla, ensuring that were a result of a collective effort.

Furthermore, the project had a tangible impact on policy. By producing policy briefs for municipal authorities, ensuring the project ensures that insights gained from indigenous knowledge are incorporated into local economic development plans and climate adaptation strategies, thereby influencing the policy at a local level.

By M-Afrika Batyi