The meeting was opened by Ms Prudence Makhura, who welcomed participants and outlined the purpose of the gathering, emphasising the critical role of the Advisory Board in guiding the Hub’s strategic direction, ensuring alignment with Future Earth’s global mission, and strengthening Africa’s contribution to sustainability science. Board members then introduced themselves, reflecting a diverse range of expertise spanning academia, policy, industry, media, and civil society across Africa and beyond. Mr Michael Nxumalo, Director of the Future Earth Africa Hub, presented an overview of completed and ongoing activities, highlighting progress since the NRF was approved as host of the Africa Hub in 2022. This was followed by reflections on the phased implementation approach and the establishment of key institutional structures, including the Africa Hub Leadership Centre co-hosted by Rhodes University and the University of Pretoria. A plenary discussion allowed members to engage on priorities, opportunities, and expectations.
A key outcome of the morning session was the election of the Advisory Board leadership, with members nominating and electing the Chair and Vice-Chair. The newly elected Co-Chairs subsequently led deliberations on the Advisory Board’s mandate and governance, including a detailed review of the Terms of Reference, membership expectations, tenure, and the frequency and format of meetings. There was consensus on the need for clear communication channels and efficient decision-making processes between formal meetings.
The FEAH and Leadership Centre jointly presented the Africa Hub 2024/25 Annual Report, followed by a forward-looking session on the Africa Hub Vision 2026–2030. This session underscored the Hub’s ambition to strengthen transdisciplinary research, policy engagement, and partnerships that advance transformative sustainability science in Africa. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to active engagement, resource mobilisation, and continued collaboration to ensure the Future Earth Africa Hub delivers impactful, Africa-centred contributions to global sustainability agendas.