This shift is particularly pronounced in Africa, where green jobs and the greening of traditional roles present both challenges and opportunities. Nolo Mokoena, Co-founder and Chief Information Officer of Crtve Development highlighted these dynamics in an interview with Channel Africa.

Green jobs, as defined by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), span traditional sectors like manufacturing and construction, alongside newer industries such as renewable energy.

However, Mokoena emphasised the need to contextualise this definition for Africa.

"For our context, a green job is any role that contributes to the green transition," he explained, citing examples like subsistence farming adaptations to changing weather patterns.

Crtve Development’s green jobs initiative, launched during the Africa Climate Summit in Kenya, aims to create one million green jobs across five African countries—South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Senegal, and Mozambique—by 2050.

Supported by partners like MasterCard and the Ford Foundation, the initiative seeks to place jobs at the centre of Africa’s climate adaptation strategies.

Mokoena argued that by focusing on employment, the initiative not only supports environmental sustainability but also addresses youth unemployment and economic stagnation.

The concept of "greening jobs" extends beyond creating new roles. It involves adapting existing ones to align with environmental goals, such as implementing sustainable practices in workplaces and industries.

Mokoena underscored the importance of holding stakeholders accountable, ensuring that green transitions are industry-led rather than burdening individuals.

While acknowledging Africa’s challenges in accessing adequate climate financing, Mokoena remains optimistic.

"Climate adaptation is an opportunity to capitalise on growth and create pathways for young people," he said, calling for collaborative efforts to ensure Africa’s active participation in the green revolution.

--ChannelAfrica--