Introduction
Nairobi has experienced extreme weather patterns in the past few months, as forewarned by meteorologists. This trend started last year with devastating droughts that severely impacted the entire country, especially the arid and semi-arid regions. These droughts led to significant food shortages and insecurity, prompting politicians, including President William Ruto, to call for national prayers. The droughts caused the deaths of vulnerable women and children and resulted in the loss of livestock and crops, driving up food prices and hurting Kenya’s economy.
Fast forward to this year (2024), Kenya witnessed another extreme weather pattern, this time with heavy and prolonged rains leading to floods and mudslides that killed people in both cities and villages. These issues are not unique to Kenya; similar situations occurred in places like Dubai and Germany.
Varieties of Science Network (VOSN)
To address these challenges, a new approach to problem-oriented research has emerged. The Varieties of Science Network (VOSN) was conceived in Basel, Switzerland, by Prof. Stefan Böschen from RWTH Aachen University, Germany, and Prof. Fredrick Ogenga from Rongo University, Kenya. This network aims to tackle global challenges such as climate change, financial inequalities, political and social upheavals, and pandemics.
Goals of VOSN:
- Foster cross-cultural and cross-geographical cooperation.
- Leverage local and global knowledge to address common scientific questions.
- Promote intellectual democracy and epistemic freedom across disciplines.
Lessons from Flood Narratives
The recent floods in Kenya, Germany, and Dubai highlight the interconnectedness of our world and the shared challenges we face. Traditionally, global narratives have emphasized the divide between the global North and South, often portraying Africa in a negative light. However, the equal treatment of flood news in Germany and Kenya suggests a shift towards a more unified global perspective.
Key Insights:
- Climate change affects all regions, regardless of their development status.
- There is a need for a collective effort to address climate-induced disasters.
- Shared challenges can foster global unity and collaboration.
Approach and Focus Areas
VOSN will start by focusing on climate change as the entry point for global collaboration. This involves understanding and promoting local cultures’ role in research and finding solutions to global problems.
Key Focus Areas:
- Climate Mitigation and Adaptation:
- Examining the role of technology in climate mitigation across different regions.
- Conducting local action research to inspire practical interventions.
- Highlighting human ingenuity and tech innovations in climate adaptation.
- Policy Interventions and Community Impact:
- Investigating the political economy of climate interventions.
- Exploring the implications of carbon credit programs on local communities.
- Promoting alternative livelihoods, such as tree planting, to enhance conflict resilience and peacebuilding.
Conclusion
The Varieties of Science Network aims to bring together diverse perspectives and knowledge systems to tackle global challenges. By focusing on climate change, VOSN seeks to create a more coordinated and inclusive approach to scientific research and problem-solving. Through collaboration and innovation, we can develop effective solutions to ensure the self-preservation of humanity in the face of climate change.
Call to Action
Join the Varieties of Science Network to contribute to a better understanding of climate challenges and collaborate on innovative solutions. Together, we can make a difference in creating a sustainable and resilient future for all.
