Although separated by vast distances, Indonesia and Tunisia face a typical challenge: the growing impact of climate change. Even though the 2 countries are situated on opposite sides of the globe, each countries face similar threats to their water resources, agriculture and vulnerable populations because of this of world warming. The TAKSNA conference, held October 20-22, 2024 in Tunis, brings these nations together, demonstrating that although they’re geographically distant, their experiences and native insights provide worthwhile lessons for global climate solutions. By sharing their approaches to addressing climate impacts, Indonesia and Tunisia want to focus on the importance of local strategies in contributing to global climate motion.
The conference began with a warm welcome by Dr. Najoua Bouraoui, Director of APEDDUB, considered one of the leading NGOs in North Africa, followed by an inspiring speech on the important thing role of youth in climate motion. She called for urgent motion on climate change, particularly regarding water resources and agriculture, and introduced projects reminiscent of “Bisky I” and “Fina Dima”, which aim to construct local capability and promote climate-conscious planning. Both speakers highlighted the ability of partnerships and community efforts in making a more sustainable future for Tunisia and beyond.
The partnership between Indonesia and Tunisia was born earlier this 12 months in Cape Town during a knowledge management initiative organized by South South North (SSN) under the VCA program, where representatives from each countries, C4ledger and APEDDUB, joined forces on shared concerns.
Both nations face severe water crises, exacerbated by climate change, making them ideal collaborators. The aim of this partnership is to adapt global climate solutions to local contexts, document effective community-led practices and amplify these issues through media support. The aim is to handle water challenges while empowering vulnerable populations, with the hope of laying the foundations for future climate motion.
One of probably the most anticipated sessions of the conference included presentations by two renowned Indonesian researchers: Yuni Setyaningsih SKPm, M.A. and Dr. Moh Taqiuddin. Yuni Setyaningsih, Lecturer in Development Studies and Center for Social Engagement for Regional Potential and Community Empowerment (PDPM) at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS); and C4ledger Communications and Knowledge Brokerage Advisor for the South South North (SSN) VCA program South Africa shared its expertise in sustainable water management. She stressed the importance of community involvement in developing local solutions to water scarcity, which has grow to be a key issue in Indonesia resulting from climate change.
Doctor Moh. Taqiuddin, Senior Lecturer on the Department of Animal Science, Mataram University and Director of KONSEPSI as leader of C4Ledger (Consortium for Knowledge Management/Intermediation) VCA Indonesia. He discussed the disproportionate effects of climate change on vulnerable groups, especially in rural areas, and the necessity for policies based on local and scientific knowledge.
Both researchers demonstrated how Indonesia is tackling the climate-induced water crisis and contributed significantly to the broader international dialogue on climate justice.
For Tunisia, TAKSNA is a chance to showcase its national climate policy and adaptation efforts. The country is actively learning from Indonesia’s approach to similar challenges, creating an exchange of best practices that may profit each nations. Tunisia’s role on the conference also highlights its commitment to constructing a sustainable future through international cooperation and community engagement.
Looking to the long run, TAKSNA is just the start of broader cooperation between Tunisia and Indonesia. In December, Indonesia Climate Week will proceed the dialogue initiated at TAKSNA, with knowledge-sharing sessions, national discussions, social product exhibitions and social campaigns to lift awareness of climate change. The aim is to influence government policy and have interaction the broader public on climate motion.
The TAKSNA conference represents a major step towards international climate cooperation, especially between Indonesia and Tunisia. With expert contributions, the event highlights the importance of mixing local knowledge with scientific knowledge to develop meaningful climate solutions. The lessons learned from the TAKSNA project is not going to only profit each countries, but will even contribute to strengthening global efforts to handle climate change.
