SSN Releases its First Annual Report
A Year of Reflection, Renewal and Strategic Alignment
SouthSouthNorth (SSN) launches its inaugural Annual Report, covering the period January 2025 to January 2026, a year defined by transition, intentional alignment, and strengthened commitment to just and transformative climate resilient development across the Global South.
This milestone publication builds on the release of SSN’s first organisational Strategy (2025–2030) and reflects a renewed emphasis on transparency, institutional learning and strategic coherence. It is both an external and internal tool: an account of the work accomplished with partners, and a mirror for the organisation to evaluate progress against its strategic ambitions.
A first-of-its-kind report in a complex global moment
This annual report marks an important shift in how the organisation reflects on, learns from, and communicates its work. Developed during a year of significant transition, where longstanding programmes neared completion, and new strategic priorities emerged, the report offers an honest view of an evolving organisational landscape by:
- Enhancing transparency and accountability
- Strengthening partnerships through clearer articulation of SSN’s capabilities and values
- Supporting internal reflection to ensure alignment with the 2025–2030 Strategy.
To better ground future reporting, SSN also began developing a centralised MEL framework that will bring greater coherence across programmes.
This reflection unfolds against a backdrop of global complexity. As political consensus on climate action fractured and collaboration pathways became more uncertain, SSN’s four impact areas (resilient social and ecological systems, fair and accessible climate finance, strengthened capabilities, and inclusive multi-level governance) remained not only guiding anchors but increasingly urgent priorities.
Key highlights from 2025
Across 27 active programmes spanning 45 countries, SSN delivered impact through innovation, relationships and evidence-based action. Highlights include:
- Strengthening resilience through ecosystem-based adaptation, urban water stewardship, and energy access initiatives.
- Shaping climate finance debates at the G20, UNFCCC processes, and national and regional dialogues on Articles 2.1(c) and 9 of the Paris Agreement.
- Mobilising and brokering knowledge through 62 knowledge products, 50 events, and new evidence repositories that bridge research and practice.
- Supporting inclusive governance by elevating community voices, strengthening accountability, and embedding locally led approaches across multiple regions.
2025 was also defined by institutional strengthening: enhanced digital systems, a refined approach to external engagement, a redesigned performance review system, and the launch of SSN’s Knowledge Lab in Cape Town, a space dedicated to collaboration, learning and innovation.
Positioned for the future
In 2026, SSN enters this moment with renewed clarity: a strengthened internal platform, a sharpened approach to partnership, and an unwavering commitment to climate justice.
For over two decades, SSN has worked across countries, sectors and governance levels to enable climate-resilient development in the Global South. This first Annual Report not only reflects that legacy but also lays the foundation for the years ahead.