CLARE distinguishes itself by combining support for research for impact with a strong commitment to capacity strengthening. By equipping local researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers with the skills, tools, and connections to networks they need to address climate-related risks, CLARE projects foster long-term ownership and leadership in climate resilience.

Unlike approaches that generate knowledge in isolation from users, CLARE recognises and priotitises the value of directly engaging with stakeholders and  translating research into practical solutions that directly address real-world climate challenges, particularly in vulnerable communities. 

This dual approach ensures that research does not remain theoretical, but positively contributes to inclusive and sustainable climate resilience.

Sustainable Capacity Strengthening

CLARE’s approach to capacity strengthening is comprehensive, engaging actors across all levels from local communities, civil society to decision makers within government institutions.  By working across systems rather than isolated components, the programme aims to transform the way climate resilience is built and sustained.

Agyemang Darko from the CO-CAT project highlights the breadth of these efforts. 

“Several projects within CLARE are advancing capacity strengthening in different ways. Some focus on working with local government authorities, while others collaborate directly with communities. ”

In addition, CLARE seeks to share capacity across projects through peer-learning and responsive capacity strengthening opportunities facilitated by the Capacity Strengthening (CS) Hub.

Research-to-action

CLARE projects are strengthening the capacity of different actors across the research-to-action value chain, engaging them in the research process, ensuring that useful knowledge is not only generated but effectively shared and applied. 

“Peer-to-peer learning plays a powerful role: communities are able to share experiences directly with one another, accelerating the spread of practical solutions.” – Charlton Ziervogel from the Tuwe Pamoja project

Some CLARE projects address structural gaps in leadership, as Dorine Odongo from AWARD notes: 

“There is a strong focus on advancing women’s leadership in climate action, recognising that women remain underrepresented in decision-making spaces. The [AWARD] project not only equips women with leadership skills but also works to create more enabling systems for their participation.”

Other projects are investing deeply in local expertise. Zahid Amin Shashoto from SURF-IT explains how training programmes led by the project are enabling community members to lead technical work, from operating drones to analysing data, reducing reliance on external support and strengthening long-term resilience. 

Research legacy and resilience

CLARE supports early career researchers with opportunities to learn and grow , ensuring that the next generation of climate leaders can contribute to research legacy and resilience. Naturinda Peruth from the WOSFER project reflects: 

“It has been a learning and incredible experience. I have been able to gain insight into knowledge and skills related to research, but also beyond research related to project management and coordination.”

Through its emphasis on capacity strengthening, CLARE ensures that climate research is not only impactful but also sustainable, inclusive, and locally owned. By investing in people, systems, and knowledge exchange, the programme is helping to build climate resilience that endures.

Learn more about how CLARE strengthens capacities to drive sustainable, inclusive climate solutions: