In a first for Africa, the Club of Rome (CoR) held its annual conference and global summit at Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch from 4 – 7 November 2019.
The CoR was formed in Italy in 1968 and consists of leading scientists, economists, business people and former heads of state.
The CoR gained recognition in 1972 with its first report, The Limits to Growth, considered a classic in the sustainability movement and the first study to question the viability of continued growth in the human ecological footprint.
At the time, the CoR predicted many of the global challenges we face today, but the think-tank is now asking tough questions about the appropriateness of the current paradigm and civilisation patterns it has spawned.
The summit was themed: Our Joint Futures – Lessons from Africa and focused on the climate emergency, reclaiming and reframing economics, new models of finance and emerging new civilisations.
The summit was hosted in partnership with Stellenbosch University’s Institute for Futures Research.
Veteran South African human rights activist Dr Mamphela Ramphele was appointed Co-President of the CoR at its 50th anniversary celebrations last year, along with Sandrine Dixson-Declѐve.
“New thinking is required to solve our most complex problems. This summit will highlight the latest insights on new pathways for Africa and the global community,” she said.
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