Researchers, government representatives and partners from across Africa gathered in Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique, from 27–30 October 2026 for the WEMA consortium's final meeting, as the study enters its last six months ahead of its conclusion in March 2027.
The gathering brought together teams from South Africa, Kenya, Burkina Faso and Mozambique to reflect on research findings, share progress and discuss how the evidence generated through WEMA can inform responses to the mental health impacts of climate change and extreme weather events.
A key focus of the meeting was how to translate WEMA's research findings into meaningful action. Country teams shared their community engagement and communication plans, while consortium members worked together to identify opportunities to communicate the research more widely through accessible media content, policy briefs and public engagement initiatives.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to engage with government representatives from the four participating countries and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Discussions explored how mental health and psychosocial support could be better integrated into existing climate, health and disaster response systems, including through psychological first aid, referral pathways and early warning mechanisms.
The consortium also began developing policy-facing documents to help ensure that research findings reach decision-makers and contribute to relevant policies and programmes.
On 30 October, the consortium meeting was followed by a meeting of the WEMA Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), which provides scientific oversight and guidance to the study.
The SAB reviewed progress across the project's research activities, including findings on heat and mental health, prevalence and risk factors for mental health conditions, digital storytelling, knowledge exchange and community co-design.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to reflect on the project's achievements, challenges and priorities for its final six months, as the consortium works towards completing its research outputs and strengthening the impact of its findings.
While the gathering involved several days of intensive discussions and collaboration, there was also an opportunity for team members to enjoy some of Mozambique's beautiful coastline. After long days of meetings, the beach provided a welcome chance to relax, connect and enjoy some downtime together.
As WEMA approaches its conclusion in March 2027, the focus is on consolidating research findings, sharing knowledge and strengthening engagement with communities, policymakers and regional partners.
Although the study is nearing its end, the work towards understanding and addressing the mental health impacts of climate change continues. The Mozambique gathering reinforced the importance of collaboration in ensuring that the evidence generated through WEMA contributes to more informed and resilient climate and health responses across Africa.
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