MVIWAARUSHA Strengthens Global Partnerships Through International Learning Exchange and CBA20 Conference in the Philippines

By 𝖣𝖺𝗆𝗂𝖺𝗇 𝖲𝗎𝗅𝗎𝗆𝗈 – 𝖯𝗋𝗈𝗀𝗋𝖺𝗆𝗌 𝖮𝖿𝖿𝗂𝖼𝖾𝗋 | 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬

MVIWAARUSHA continues to expand its global engagement and commitment to sustainable community development through active participation in an International Learning Exchange and the CBA20 Conference currently taking place in Manila City, Philippines. Representing the organization are the Coordinator, Mr. Masandika, together with Program Officer Mr. Damian Sulumo, who are proudly sharing the organization’s experiences, lessons, and community-driven approaches with international partners and practitioners.

The International Learning Exchange has provided MVIWAARUSHA with an important platform to showcase its advocacy interventions that promote agroecology, agrobiodiversity, climate resilience, and farmer-managed seed systems. Through discussions and collaborative sessions, the organization has been able to exchange practical knowledge and learn from diverse experiences across countries, reinforcing the value of locally led solutions in addressing climate and agricultural challenges.

The engagement also serves as a strategic opportunity for planning future activities and strengthening collaboration among participating organizations from May through the end of the year. These discussions are focused on building stronger partnerships, enhancing collective action, and advancing sustainable community development initiatives that empower local communities and protect indigenous knowledge systems.

At the same time, MVIWAARUSHA is participating in the prestigious CBA20 Conference under the Knowledge Nexus Theme – Youth Track, joining global stakeholders in conversations around climate adaptation and resilience. The conference has created a dynamic environment where young leaders, community organizations, researchers, and policymakers are working together to explore practical pathways toward locally led adaptation.

During the conference, the MVIWAARUSHA team actively participated in Session K5: “Indigenous Knowledge as Applied Climate Science” and Session K6: “Dialogue Without Domination.” These sessions emphasized the critical role of ethics, consent, local knowledge systems, and community-led solutions in addressing climate change adaptation. The discussions highlighted how indigenous and local knowledge continue to provide effective and sustainable responses to environmental challenges while ensuring that communities remain at the center of decision-making processes.

For MVIWAARUSHA, the experience in the Philippines is not only a moment of international representation but also a significant opportunity to strengthen networks, exchange ideas, and deepen its commitment to climate justice, resilient agriculture, and inclusive development. The participation reflects the organization’s ongoing dedication to empowering farmers, youth, and local communities through knowledge sharing, advocacy, and sustainable practices.

MVIWAARUSHA extends sincere appreciation to its valued partners, Nature Nurture and IIED, for their continued support and commitment to learning, collaboration, and strengthening community voices across countries. Their partnership continues to play a vital role in promoting innovation, resilience, and meaningful global cooperation for sustainable development.

As the exchange and conference continue, MVIWAARUSHA remains committed to bringing back valuable insights and experiences that will further strengthen its programs and contribute to building resilient and empowered communities at home and beyond.