Are we there yet? Climate philanthropy and the climate action sustainable development goal in Southern Africa

Abstract

Climate change is a significant concern in Southern Africa, with increasing reports of severe impacts from weather-related events. Through qualitative methodology, this article evaluates the progress of climate action financing and adoption with insights from 20 key informants from Southern African philanthropic organizations. This is aided through a risk aversion theoretical lens. In depth interviews were conducted between Oct 2022 and March 2023 with representatives from philanthropic organisations in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana specifically. The study’s findings revealed significant gaps, opportunities, and barriers in climate initiatives, particularly as funding for these efforts remains under 10% of total philanthropic allocations. 80% of the respondents reported that less than 50% allocation of their budget went to climate action. More than half of the respondents reported having less than a 10% allocation of budget to climate activities. Amidst intricate dynamics, compounded by a dearth of regulatory frameworks and policies, along with enduring socio-economic adversities, the disparity between the imperative for climate action and its realization on the ground is starkly evident. The study also found that climate philanthropy is disproportionately driven by funding from the Global North, often motivated by trauma rather than a focus on achieving sustainable development goals.