CATAL1.5°T Roadshow: activating main ecosystem stakeholders in ClimateTech across West Africa

CATAL1.5°T: driving climate innovation and collaboration for a sustainable West Africa

The CATAL1.5°T initiative has reached a significant milestone in its mission to support climate innovation in West Africa. Through a series of strategic events organized in several countries in the region—Mauritania, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Burkina Faso—the initiative brought together key players from the ClimateTech ecosystem: visionary entrepreneurs, committed investors, climate experts, and local organizations, all united by a common vision: transforming West Africa to better address the challenges of climate change.

Strengthened collaboration for an ambitious climate transition

The CATAL1.5°T tour helped to reinforce connections within local and regional communities by promoting enriching exchanges and strategic collaborations. The events played a crucial role in creating spaces for dialogue among sector actors, allowing concrete solutions to emerge in response to climate challenges. One participating entrepreneur stated: "This is a unique opportunity to build relationships with other actors passionate about climate innovation and explore solutions that are applicable to our local context."

Workshops, panels, and discussions highlighted best practices and innovative ideas in areas such as sustainable energy, resilient agriculture, and natural resource management. Another participant from Senegal added: "This event inspired me to think differently and adopt new approaches to integrating climate issues into my business. It is essential to act locally while thinking globally."

Senegal1 — Participants of the event that has been held in Senegal

A tangible impact on the local ecosystem

Through these meetings, the CATAL1.5°T initiative contributed to creating an ecosystem conducive to the emergence of innovative solutions. The discussions raised participants' awareness of the critical climate issues while identifying investment and development opportunities.

Participants' feedback highlights the importance of these meetings in strengthening local networks. "This is a turning point for our community. Events like these create synergies that would otherwise be difficult to achieve. Collaboration between climate actors is key to succeeding in our energy transition," an entrepreneur from Senegal shared.

A collective commitment for sustainable transformation

The CATAL1.5°T initiative not only raised participants' awareness of climate issues but also created an environment where collective action is paramount. Each event served as a platform for knowledge sharing, sparked potential partnerships, and strengthened the ecosystem for developing relevant climate projects. The diversity of speakers, ranging from young entrepreneurs to international experts, enriched the debates and demonstrated the way forward for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Participants expressed a shared vision: building a sustainable future for West Africa through locally adapted solutions. "We all have a role to play in making climate innovation a driver of development in our countries. These events show that change is not only possible but already underway," emphasized a representative from an Ivorian entrepreneurship support organization.

Cote d Ivoire3 — Participants of the event that has been held in Ivory Coast

Towards a dynamic regional network

The CATAL1.5°T initiative has laid the foundation for a strong regional network, where collaboration between local and international actors will enable more effective and concerted action to address climate challenges. This regional network will become an essential vehicle for sharing knowledge, multiplying initiatives, and supporting innovative projects across West Africa.

These events have not only strengthened regional solidarity but have also generated powerful momentum for a sustainable and inclusive climate transition. As the first wave of CATAL1.5°T roadshow events conclude, it is evident that this journey is just beginning. The enthusiasm and commitment shown across West Africa have laid a strong foundation for the continued growth of a thriving climate tech ecosystem. We look forward to hosting more events in 2025, building on this momentum, and creating ongoing opportunities for networking, innovation, and growth. Through continued collaboration and collective commitment, West Africa is poised to lead the way in climate innovation and resilience.

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