From lab to life and back: Bridging citizens, science and policy for safe water access and climate change resilience

Duration

2 years

Lead institutions

Universiteit Antwerpen

Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology , Mzumbe University

Academic partners

Cretus Philipo , Doreen Kyando

Project status

Ongoing

Programme

Total budget

69,714.70

Summary

Tanzanians in rural areas face challenges from limited access to safe water and the growing impacts of climate change. They must make daily adaptation decisions affecting their future livelihoods and health, yet often rely on incomplete information. Critical data on water quality and climate change remain confined to university labs, while scientists and policymakers lack localized insights. Our project bridges these gaps by: (1) integrating citizen science (CS) into water and climate research, exploring AI’s potential; (2) embedding CS in education to build capacity and strengthen interdisciplinary learning; and (3) establishing a Citizen Science Hub to connect citizens, scientists, and policymakers. By enhancing knowledge exchange, the project empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions, ultimately improving public health, well-being, and resilience.