Leading the Way: Women Navigating Climate Change, Mobility, and Resilience in Africa
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
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Abstract: This study explores the intersection of gender, climate change, and human mobility across Kenya, Somalia, and Nigeria. It documents the differentiated vulnerabilities and adaptation strategies of women, particularly pastoralists and displaced populations, in response to climate-induced migration and environmental shocks. The research draws on fieldwork, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, with the Kenya case study centered in Suswa among Maasai communities. It examines gendered power dynamics in climate adaptation, highlighting barriers such as gender-based violence, reduced mobility, unequal access to resources, and limited decision-making power. At the same time, the report presents opportunities to empower women as knowledge holders, community leaders, and drivers of locally led climate adaptation and resilience strategies. Key recommendations include investing in gender-transformative climate adaptation, inclusive financing, community systems strengthening, and intergenerational dialogue to reshape climate policy and mobility responses across Africa.