Welcome to The Discourse, a daily feature on Rise and Shine, where we focus on a particular issue from the African perspective. Today we are zooming into the impact of climate change on rural communities. Joining us on the line is Her Majesty Queen Neo Mopeli, the newly appointed Commissioner of South Africa's Presidential Climate Commission. As the Commission charts its strategic direction for 2026 to 2030, the focus is not only on policy and targets, but on people, particularly those most vulnerable to climate shocks. Rural communities are already experiencing the harsh realities of changing weather patterns, water scarcity, and food insecurity. Within these communities, rural women carry a disproportionate burden, often serving as caregivers, farmers, and custodians of natural resources, yet having limited access to resources and decision-making platforms. Her Majesty spoke to Tsepiso Makwetla