The inaugural Climate Forum between Spain and Namibia featured notable speakers and sessions aimed at addressing various aspects of climate change and its impacts. The event commenced with opening remarks from distinguished speakers, including HE Alberto de la Calle, the Ambassador of Spain to Namibia, and Dr. Fabiola Quesada, Vice-president of the Association of Spanish Researchers in the South of Africa (ACESDA), both presented online. Additionally, Ms. María Luisa de la Puerta Fernández, CEO of Omeva Consulting, shared insights at the outset.
The program featured a keynote address from 09:30 to 10:00, beginning with Mr. Carlos Leon, President of the Official College of Agricultural Technical Engineers of Western Andalusia (COITAND), who discussed the pivotal role of agricultural engineers in advancing agriculture and progress, presented online. Following this, Dr. Rafael Laguens, President of the World Veterinary Medicine Association, examined the impacts of climate change on veterinary medicine, rounding off the keynote session.
Throughout the day, sessions delved into critical themes such as understanding our systems and products, leveraging resources for cooperation, the agri-tech revolution's impact on data and technology, the importance of One Health, and exploring climate change beyond its scientific dimensions.
EURAXESS Africa played a significant role in the event's second session, represented by Dr. Ahmed Maalel, the Regional Representative for Africa. Dr. Maalel delivered an online presentation highlighting EURAXESS Africa's services, funding opportunities, and networking possibilities, emphasizing the organization's commitment to supporting research and innovation in Africa.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Emilia Celemín Redondo, the Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Spain in Namibia, underscoring the importance of international collaboration in addressing climate challenges and fostering sustainable development.