Regional Biodiversity Platforms
CABES has established a network of sub-regional and regional Science-Policy-Practitioner platforms to support the implementation of IPBES rolling work programme, its uptake, as well as to foster capacity development activities and intra-continental collaborations. This is being accomplished by strengthening the existing sub-regional platform of West Africa (implemented by WASCAL) and establishing two additional sub-regional platforms in Central and East Africa via the implementing partners – University of Lubumbashi and the Horn of Africa Regional Environment Center and Network, respectively. Specifically, the platforms are:
- creating or extending direct links to the CABES national platforms, the sub-regional platforms, and IPBES to provide knowledge about ongoing IPBES activities and related products, and present ways of engaging with IPBES,
- facilitating the exchange of experience and lessons learned from the different national contexts of the platform members in their daily work regarding the uptake of IPBES products into national policies.
The regional and sub-regional Science-Policy-Practitioner (SPPIs) platforms are also implementing several relevant activities, including:
Stakeholder/network analyses
Relevant stakeholders at the (sub)regional level in biodiversity-related fields are being identified and invited to participate. These include scientists, policymakers, practitioners, the private sector (including individuals from extractive industries, agricultural industries, fisheries, SMEs dealing with the green economy & nature-based solutions amongst others), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) holders in the field of biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Organisation of regional and sub-regional workshops
Periodic workshops are being held to bring together stakeholders from the three target sub-regions of West, Central, and East Africa. The workshops help raise awareness of IPBES activities, strengthen stakeholders’ capacities to participate in IPBES processes, and promote networking and cross-sector collaborations. This is being supplemented by regular virtual events.
Mentorship programmes for IPBES memberships
The platforms provide mentorship to regional stakeholders regarding IPBES membership, domestic adoption of IPBES products, particularly assessments, and participation in IPBES activities.
Delegates’ preparation for IPBES plenaries
The platforms ensure delegates at sub-regional levels can effectively participate in IPBES plenaries. Training sessions are organized to prepare delegations prior to each IPBES plenary to help them identify common challenges related to BES in each sub-region and hence allow delegations to speak with one voice.
Experts Mobilization for IPBES calls
The platform assists IPBES National Focal Points (NFPs) in identifying and mobilising suitable candidates/experts in response to IPBES calls in each sub-region for nomination as authors to participate in IPBES assessments, its fellowship programmes, and as reviewers.
