The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) participated in the Sustainability Research and Innovation (SRI) Africa Regional Conference (SRI2026), held from 22-26 June 2026 at the Southern Sun Hotel in Cape Town under the theme “Advancing African-led Solutions for Sustainability Transformation.” The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, civil society organisations, industry representatives and development partners from across Africa and internationally to advance dialogue on sustainability science, climate resilience, innovation and evidence-informed policy. As part of the conference programme, the HSRC hosted a parallel session, entitled “Human Dimensions of Climate Change: A Double-Edged Sword for Developing Countries.” The session showcased the Council’s research on the socioeconomic dimensions of climate change and highlighted evidence from vulnerable communities across South Africa.
The HSRC delegation undertook complementary roles throughout the session. Dr Wilfred Lunga delivered the principal presentation, outlining the findings of the study and discussing the implications of climate change for vulnerable communities in South Africa. Dr Mokhantšo Makoae served as the session chair, while Prof. Bernard Moeketsi Hlalele participated as the discussant. Prof. Charles Hongoro served as the Moderator and Observer, guiding audience participation and managing the question-and-answer session.
The presentation examined the socioeconomic consequences of climate change across the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga using a mixed-methods approach that combined community engagement with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based spatial analysis. Findings demonstrated that floods, droughts and heat stress continue to intensify, with their impacts amplified by poverty, inadequate infrastructure, governance challenges and limited adaptive capacity. The research introduced the concept of climate change as a “double-edged sword,” illustrating how interconnected climate hazards simultaneously generate environmental, social and economic challenges. Particular attention was given to the implications of the Just Energy Transition, highlighting the importance of ensuring that climate adaptation and mitigation strategies are accompanied by livelihood protection, inclusive decision-making and equitable development opportunities.
Recommendations emphasised integrated climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, participatory governance, livelihood diversification, gender-responsive planning and stronger collaboration between government, researchers and communities. The presentation also advocated for regenerative, justice-centred innovation that integrates scientific evidence with indigenous and local knowledge systems to strengthen resilience and promote sustainable development. The HSRC’s participation demonstrated the organisation’s leadership in sustainability research and reinforced its commitment to producing evidence that supports climate resilience, informs public policy, and contributes to African-led solutions for sustainable development.
