Dr. Joanes Atela Email & Phone Number

Nairobi County, Kenya

As the executive director, my primary achievement lies in spearheading the development of robust evidence-based actions and strategies within the realm of climate change. With a keen focus on alignment with national, regional, and international initiatives, I've ensured our organization remains at the forefront of impactful climate interventions. By leveraging data-driven insights and fostering adaptability, we've crafted initiatives that not only address immediate environmental challenges but also lay a foundation for long-term sustainability. Through meticulous coordination and strategic alignment, our efforts resonate across borders, contributing significantly to the global fight against climate change.

Nairobi County, Kenya

Kampala, Central Region, Uganda

As Co-Director of the Climate Finance and Sustainability (CFS) Centre, I spearhead a pioneering initiative aimed at bridging critical gaps in climate finance and sustainability education in Africa. Our center, a collaborative effort between Makerere University Business School (MUBS) in Kampala, Uganda, the Africa Research and Impact Network (ARIN) in Nairobi, Kenya, and the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management in Frankfurt, Germany, operates on a three-pronged approach. Firstly, we prioritize expanding access to top-tier training in climate finance and sustainability for African learners who face barriers to international education due to cost constraints. Secondly, we foster a platform for Africa-driven research, knowledge exchange, and idea-sharing, tailored to the continent's unique context. Lastly, we actively engage with policymakers across Africa, providing them with evidence-based insights to inform policy decisions in the realm of climate finance and sustainability. Through targeted capacity-building programs and strategic partnerships, our center is empowering a new generation of leaders equipped to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change in Africa and beyond.

Nairobi County, Kenya

As an Associate Lecturer at the Institute of Climate Change and Adaptation (ICCA), I developed and implemented innovative teaching strategies to engage students in the complexities of climate change science and adaptation strategies. I collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary course materials, integrating the latest research and technologies to enhance the learning experience. Through mentorship and guidance, I supported students in conducting impactful research projects, fostering their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, I actively participated in academic conferences and workshops, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in climate change and adaptation.

Nairobi County, Kenya

Gigiri, Nairobi

As the contact point and lead person for the STEPS Africa Sustainability HUB, I was deeply involved in its management and coordination. The HUB, a captivating initiative, functioned as a networked venture, uniting four key partners: the STEPS Centre at the University of Sussex, the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), and the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS).The primary objective of the HUB was to establish itself as a research and knowledge-sharing platform dedicated to advancing transformations toward more equitable, climate-compatible, and resilient development pathways across Africa. Moreover, it aimed to foster innovative research, enhance capacity development, and facilitate south-to-south knowledge exchange concerning the significant sustainability challenges confronting the continent, including issues like pro-poor energy access, low-carbon development, and climate financing.By bringing together researchers from diverse backgrounds across the continent, the Hub endeavored to leverage research and policy related to science, technology, and innovation to advocate for socially just sustainability. Our ultimate goal was to generate a robust evidence base, enabling critical engagement with policy and actions geared towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and the post-2015 Development Agenda.

Nairobi, Kenya

I spearheaded research initiatives aimed at unraveling the intricate dynamics between land-based carbon initiatives, such as agroecosystems and REDD+ demonstration projects, and the vital livelihood assets of local communities across sub-Saharan Africa. This endeavor involved delving deep into the socio-economic fabric of these communities, understanding their dependencies on land resources, and assessing how climate change interventions intersected with their daily lives. Additionally, I played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and drafting research ideas, concept notes, and proposals focused on climate change mitigation and the provision of environmental services.

Bonn Area, Germany

Conducted comprehensive analyses of climate change policies, networks, and agreements within the framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of Parties (COP). In this role, I delved deep into the intricate web of international climate negotiations, dissecting the evolution of policies, assessing the effectiveness of various networks, and scrutinizing the intricacies of diplomatic deals struck during COP meetings. Through meticulous research and critical analysis, I provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics shaping global responses to climate change, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and strategies for advancing climate action on a multilateral level. My work contributed to enhancing understanding and facilitating meaningful discourse on crucial issues within the realm of climate governance, ultimately fostering progress toward a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet.

Nairobi, Kenya

As the focal point for the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP), I spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural sustainability and productivity across the continent. One of my key achievements was delving into the intricate policy implications of carbon offsets within Kenya's agricultural landscape. Through meticulous analysis, I evaluated how carbon offsetting could be strategically integrated into agricultural practices to mitigate environmental impact while promoting economic growth. By bridging the gap between policy and practice, I facilitated the implementation of sustainable solutions that not only benefited local farmers but also contributed to broader environmental conservation efforts.

Nairobi, Kenya And Bonn, Germany

I spearheaded a captivating research initiative focusing on climate change mitigation strategies within the context of smallholder farmers residing near the Mau forest in Kenya. This endeavor was not only intellectually stimulating but also profoundly impactful. By delving into the intricate dynamics of climate change adaptation and mitigation, I was able to identify innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by local farmers. Through meticulous data collection, analysis, and collaboration with community stakeholders, I quantified the effectiveness of various interventions, shedding light on their potential to enhance resilience and sustainability in agricultural practices.

Nairobi County, Kenya

I implemented a comprehensive strategy that resulted in a measurable reduction of environmental risks and enhanced resilience within communities. By integrating innovative technologies and engaging with local stakeholders, I significantly minimized the impact of climate-related disasters. Moreover, I empowered community members to adopt sustainable practices and adapt to changing environmental conditions through capacity-building workshops and educational campaigns. As a result, we observed a tangible decrease in vulnerability indices and an increase in the overall well-being of the communities, showcasing the tangible impact of our initiatives on the ground.

Doctor Of Philosophy - Phd, Sustainability Research

Engaged in an exploration of the implications of international climate politics on African communities.

Master Of Science - Ms, Resource Management In The Tropics And Subtropics

Diploma, Project Management

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Environmental Science