Ogundele: Think tank stand between research and policy implementation

The Director at the African Development Institute of the African Development Bank, Eric Ogundele, recently highlighted the crucial role that think tanks play in bridging the gap between research and policy implementation, particularly in the realm of climate finance in Africa. Speaking at this year's Think Tank Summit in a chat with CNBC Africa, Ogundele emphasized the commitment of the African Development Bank to climate financing on the continent, citing initiatives like the desert to power initiative as examples of the bank's efforts in driving solar projects in the energy sector. Ogundele underscored the importance of mobilizing finance for climate-related projects as a key driver of action in the fight against climate change. He commended the African Development Bank for allocating 40% of its financing to climate-related initiatives, making it a global leader in this aspect. The bank's dedication to climate finance is evident in flagship projects like the Desert to Power Initiative, which aims to support countries in funding solar initiatives to address climate challenges. The think tank summit served as a platform for policymakers, ministers, and implementers to come together and discuss evidence-based research and strategies for translating research findings into actionable policies. Ogundele emphasized the pivotal role of think tanks in this process, highlighting their ability to bridge the gap between research insights and practical application. In his conversation with CNBC Africa, Ogundele stressed the collaborative efforts required to drive meaningful change in climate finance policies in Africa. He called for closer collaboration between think tanks, development finance institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of climate-related projects. By leveraging the expertise of think tanks and the financial resources of institutions like the African Development Bank, African countries can accelerate progress towards sustainable and climate-resilient development. As the continent grapples with the impacts of climate change, the role of think tanks in providing research-backed policy solutions and fostering partnerships for climate financing becomes increasingly vital. By supporting initiatives like the Desert to Power project and prioritizing climate finance, the African Development Bank and its partners are working towards a more sustainable future for Africa. With a strong focus on evidence-based research, collaboration, and policy implementation, think tanks and development finance institutions are poised to drive transformative change in Africa's climate finance landscape. By harnessing the collective expertise and resources of these entities, the continent can unlock new opportunities for sustainable development and address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.