“We are thrilled to be hosting this ground-breaking summit, uniting experts and stakeholders worldwide to confront the urgent challenges presented by climate change…”

Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), in collaboration with Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) from the United States, proudly announces the upcoming International Summit on Energy, Water, Food, and Climate Nexus.

Scheduled for the first week of July 2024, this groundbreaking event aims to address the critical challenges posed by climate change in the realms of energy, water, food security, and the environment.

The conference aims to bring together a diverse array of global experts, stakeholders, and policymakers, representing four different continents, to catalyze transformative change in addressing climate change challenges. Victor Ibeanusi, Ph.D., from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University’s (FAMU) School of the Environment and the founder and convener of the Nexus of Energy, is among high-level dignitaries who will play a central role in raising awareness and mobilizing participants from around the world.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s vision of a green and climate-resilient continent, the conference underscores the immediate need for integrated approaches to ensure sustainable access to energy, water, and food security.

Set against the backdrop of recent climate challenges faced in South Africa, including heavy floods and other climate change issues, the summit is poised to address the pressing need for collaborative solutions. In a meeting held at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) a few months prior, Dr. Victor Ibeanusi, Dean of the School of Environment, appealed to the MUT delegation to join hands with his organization. He emphasized the urgency of combating the global challenges threatening essential needs such as water, food, and energy while ravaging the climate. Dr. Ibeanusi described the EnergyWaterFoodClimate Nexus as “a new science enterprise that is designed to expand the research frontier for discoveries that integrate systems-based research and education for solutions to the vexing challenges on our environment.”

Professor Nokuthula Sibiya, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research & Innovation at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), highlighted the summit’s significance in driving tangible impact: “By joining forces with FAMU, MUT is proud to spearhead this pivotal summit, which stands as a testament to our shared commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. Through collaborative efforts and forward-thinking solutions, we aim to chart a course towards a more resilient future for generations to come.”

The program will feature dynamic plenaries, interactive panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, providing attendees with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to address climate change in the energy, water, and food sectors. Emphasizing the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement, the conference aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among diverse actors, creating a robust platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building.

The opening press briefing, scheduled for Wednesday, 7th February at the MUT Council Chamber, MUT Main Campus, will unveil the summit’s objectives and themes. Esteemed speakers including Dr. Victor Ibeanusi, Dean and Professor of the School of Environment at FAMU, and Professor Nokuthula Sibiya, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research & Innovation at MUT, will provide valuable insights into the summit’s agenda and anticipated outcomes.

“We are thrilled to be hosting this ground-breaking summit, uniting experts and stakeholders worldwide to confront the urgent challenges presented by climate change,” expressed Mbali Mkhize, Senior Director of Communication at MUT. “Through collaborative efforts and knowledge sharing, we aim to cultivate innovative solutions that will pave the way towards a more resilient future.”

Media representatives are cordially invited to attend the press briefing for an opportunity to engage with the speakers and other experts.

By Sinenzolo Mondi – Nduku