African Synthesis Centre for Climate Change, Environment and Development
Accelerating Data-Driven Climate Solutions
We convene and support Africa's leading scientists, policymakers, and communities to transform climate data into actionable policy and lasting real-world impact.
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Our purpose
Why we exist
Historically, climate research has been unequal, often led by institutions outside the regions most affected. We believe that those on the frontlines of climate change must drive the solutions. By keeping equity and justice at the center of our work, we help ensure that African and Global South researchers, decision-makers, and practitioners are leading the way to a more sustainable future.
Our model
What we do
Learn MoreSynthesize Data
We solve complex climate problems by analysing existing, scattered data to find real-world solutions.
Learn MoreTransdisciplinary Teams
We bring together diverse experts, from climatologists to health scientists to policymakers, to solve complex problems.
Learn MoreEvidence for Policy
We translate complex science into practical, localised toolkits that decision-makers can use immediately.
People
Our Team
Under the leadership of Centre Director Dr Christopher Trisos, ASCEND acts as a global hub that is reshaping the way we look at climate research.
Dr Christopher Trisos
Centre Director, ASCEND
An interdisciplinary climate scientist turning cutting-edge research into evidence for climate policy and action.
Dr Farai Kapfudzaruwa
Deputy Director of Team Science
Leads team science and facilitation, bridging research, policy and practice across Africa.
Mira Blumberg
Administrative Assistant
Supports ASCEND’s programmes, partnerships and day-to-day coordination through strong operational leadership.
Our impact
Real Impact, Real Solutions
Our synthesis teams deliver evidence that ministries, municipalities, and authorities can act on.
Climate-Proofing Schools
- Problem
- Extreme weather events and rising temperatures are making it harder for children in Sub-Saharan Africa to attend school and concentrate in classrooms.
- Action
- Our transdisciplinary BAOBAB team integrated geospatial climate vulnerability datasets with regional educational infrastructure data.
- Impact
- Equipping ministries of education with localised, high-resolution vulnerability maps and actionable policy tools to construct climate-resilient schools.
Coastal and Marine Protection (Blue Africa)
- Problem
- Scattered marine datasets prevent African coastal authorities from executing coordinated, climate-resilient marine spatial planning.
- Action
- The Blue Africa team brought together marine biologists, local community leaders, and economic policy planners to synthesise coastal data.
- Impact
- Delivering a unified conservation framework to African maritime authorities to preserve fragile marine ecosystems and protect coastal livelihoods.
Events
Proud Hosts of the What Works Climate Solutions Conference
13 to 16 April 2027, Cape Town, South Africa
Join evidence synthesis enthusiasts, policy makers, and researchers as we build the evidence infrastructure required to accelerate global climate action.
ASCEND newsletter
Subscribe to the ASCEND newsletter for upcoming funding, team calls, and policy updates.
Proudly supported by
- African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI)
- University of Cape Town
- The Gabriel Foundation
- BAOBAB, jointly funded by CLARE, UK International Development, IDRC and the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Wellcome Trust
