SASSCAL highlights environmental research and capacity building in Southern Africa

By Business Insider Correspondent

The Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) has continued to advance scientific research and technical capacity across the region through studies and programs focused on environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

According to the Chairperson of the Centre’s Board, Prof. Gabriel Miguel, the institution has undertaken extensive research in key areas such as conservation agriculture, biodiversity, ecosystems, and renewable energy.

He explained that the outcomes of these studies are designed to inform and support development planning in member countries.

Prof. Miguel made the remarks during a meeting between a SASSCAL delegation and the Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office, Dr. Richard Muyungi, held on March 6, 2026, in Dar es Salaam. The delegation visited Tanzania to introduce the centre and explore opportunities for cooperation with the Government.

He noted that beyond research, the centre has also been actively involved in building professional and technical capacity in member states.

This includes strengthening research infrastructure and supporting higher education programs aimed at developing experts in environmental science, climate change, and sustainable land management.

SASSCAL works closely with a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, environmental organizations, industry partners, and regional institutions, to ensure that scientific findings contribute directly to policy development and practical solutions for environmental challenges.

The Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office, Dr. Richard Muyungi, speaking with a delegation from the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) during their meeting held in Dar es Salaam on March 06, 2026. On the left are Deputy Permanent Secretary (Environment), Ambassador Baraka Luvanda, and Assistant Director of Environment, Dr. Kaninzio Manyika.

Established as a regional research initiative, SASSCAL focuses on climate change research, environmental assessment, and sustainable land management. The centre currently includes Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa as member countries and promotes collaboration among scientists and institutions across Southern Africa.

During the meeting, Dr. Muyungi welcomed the delegation and commended the centre for its efforts in supporting environmental conservation and climate change mitigation in the region. He also reiterated the Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in scientific research, particularly as the country prepares for the implementation of the National Development Vision 2050. He further advised that a joint team of experts from the Government and SASSCAL be formed to examine the potential benefits of Tanzania joining the institution, noting that such collaboration could enhance the country’s capacity to address environmental challenges through science-based solutions.