FRACTAL has implemented a learning lab approach since the start of the project in 2014. They have seen value in the approach as a way to promote conversations and connections between a wide range of stakeholders, exploring climate risks in a city context and sharing city level as well as regional adaptation ideas.
In Windhoek, the learning lab process has helped to mainstream climate issues among decision makers within the city, many of whom are already grappling with rapid urban growth and complexity. Olavi Makuti, Environmental Specialist at the City of Windhoek is driving the City’s Integrated Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (ICCSAP). He feels that the conversations and learnings at the labs encouraged buy in for the ICCSAP from politicians and decision makers. Many of those decision makers are now working together to address the climate risks that they collaboratively identified at the labs. He says, “The learning labs have really increased the profile of the climate change agenda in Windhoek.” He notes how the learning labs promoted understanding of climate change, altering decision makers’ perceptions of it as an abstract concept and enabling them to see it as a real issue that affects the operations of many departments at the City.
SEI are involved in FRACTAL’s learning processes and helped put together this short video about FRACTAL’s work in Windhoek. You can read more about SEI’s role in FRACTAL learning labs here.
