African Climate Leaders Invited to Join Global Negotiation Training Programme for 2026 offered by the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES)

African Climate Leaders Invited to Join Global Negotiation Training Programme for 2026

African professionals, policymakers, researchers, and emerging climate leaders have an opportunity to strengthen their skills in climate diplomacy and international negotiations through the Climate Governance, Diplomacy and Negotiations Leadership Program Cohort XXII.

The programme, offered by the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) through the Jael Vike Climate Change Training Institute (JVCCTI), is designed to equip African leaders with practical knowledge and skills needed to participate effectively in global climate governance processes.

Delivered virtually, the programme focuses on climate leadership, international negotiations, United Nations climate processes, and strategies for advancing Africa’s priorities in global climate discussions.

Programme Builds Africa’s Capacity for Climate Negotiations

Climate change continues to create significant challenges for sustainable development, particularly across Africa, where vulnerable communities face increasing impacts from rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental pressures.

Women, youth, and marginalised communities are among those most affected by climate risks, making stronger African representation in global climate decision-making increasingly important.

The programme supports participants in understanding and engaging with key international climate frameworks, including:

• The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
• The Kyoto Protocol.
• The Paris Agreement.
• Global climate finance and adaptation discussions.
• Climate action strategies linked to sustainable development.

Through this training, participants will develop the confidence and technical knowledge needed to contribute to climate policy discussions at national, regional, and international levels.

Virtual Training Targets Emerging and Experienced Climate Professionals

The Climate Governance, Diplomacy and Negotiations Leadership Program is designed for professionals and leaders working in climate change, environmental governance, and sustainable development.

Eligible participants include:

• Climate negotiators involved in international processes.
• Government officials and policymakers.
• Diplomats working on climate issues.
• Climate scientists and researchers.
• University and think tank professionals.
• Civil society representatives.
• Non-governmental organisation leaders.
• Youth and women climate leaders.
• Legal practitioners working in environmental and climate justice.
• Early-career climate professionals seeking advanced knowledge.

Applicants should demonstrate interest or experience in climate governance, diplomacy, negotiations, climate science, environmental policy, or related areas.

Participants Will Gain Practical Climate Leadership Skills

The programme aims to strengthen participants’ ability to influence climate action and represent African priorities effectively.

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Explain the science behind climate change and its impacts on Africa.
• Understand the role of climate science in shaping policy decisions.
• Apply effective climate communication and leadership approaches.
• Analyse the structure and processes of the UNFCCC system.
• Understand the roles of COP, CMA, CMP, subsidiary bodies, and negotiating groups.
• Develop practical negotiation skills.
• Interpret negotiation texts and participate in climate discussions.
• Support inclusive climate action at different levels.

The training combines technical knowledge with leadership development to prepare participants for active roles in climate governance.

Focus on Strengthening Africa’s Voice in Global Climate Action

Africa’s participation in international climate negotiations is essential to ensuring that global decisions reflect the continent’s development priorities, challenges, and opportunities.

Through initiatives such as the Climate Governance, Diplomacy and Negotiations Leadership Program, AGNES works to strengthen the connection between climate science, policy, and practical implementation.

The programme contributes to building a stronger network of African climate professionals who can:

• Influence climate policy discussions.
• Support evidence-based decision-making.
• Promote sustainable development.
• Advance climate justice.
• Represent African perspectives in international forums.

Women and Youth Climate Leaders Encouraged to Apply

AGNES is encouraging applications from women leaders, youth leaders, and early-career professionals who want to expand their contribution to Africa’s climate agenda.

The programme recognises the importance of diverse leadership in addressing climate challenges and ensuring that climate solutions are inclusive and responsive to affected communities.

Applicants from different professional backgrounds are encouraged to participate and bring their unique perspectives to the growing network of African climate leaders.

Programme Details and Application Deadline

Interested candidates are invited to apply for Cohort XXII of the Climate Governance, Diplomacy and Negotiations Leadership Program.

Programme information:

• Programme: Climate Governance, Diplomacy and Negotiations Leadership Program
• Provider: African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES)
• Training Institute: Jael Vike Climate Change Training Institute
• Format: Fully virtual
• Target Group: African climate professionals and emerging leaders
• Application Deadline: 31 July 2026

Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest or professional connection to climate change, environmental governance, sustainable development, diplomacy, or related fields.

Join a Growing Network of African Climate Leaders

The AGNES Climate Governance, Diplomacy and Negotiations Leadership Program provides participants with an opportunity to develop specialised knowledge, expand professional networks, and strengthen their role in shaping climate action.

As climate negotiations become increasingly complex, building a skilled and diverse generation of African climate leaders remains critical for ensuring meaningful participation in global climate governance.

Professionals interested in advancing Africa’s climate leadership and contributing to international climate discussions are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the  organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official  organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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