Africa to Champion Climate Action for Sustainable Growth
In recognition of the relationship between climate change and Africa’s development, African Heads of State have agreed to lead the way in finding sustainable solutions to the climate crisis during the Africa Climate Summit, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi and presided over by H.E William Ruto. The African leaders expressed their intention to collaborate with developed nations while reminding them of their climate action commitments.
The African leaders participating in this event include Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Paul Kagame (Rwanda), Évariste Ndayishimiye (Burundi), Filipe Nyusi (Mozambique), Salva Kiir (South Sudan), Sassou Nguesso (Congo), Mostafa Madbouly (Egypt), Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Mohamed Younis Menfi (Libya), Julius Maada (Sierra Leone), Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia), Brahim Ghali (Sahrawi), Azali Assoumani (Comoros), Ismaïl Omar Guelleh (Djibouti), Isaias Afwerki (Eritrea), and Macky Sall (Senegal).
The event also saw the presence of prominent figures, including Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres, and the African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina.
President Ruto affirmed Africa’s conscious decision to be at the forefront of climate change solutions and stressed that addressing this global challenge demands collective action from all nations and stakeholders. “We cannot pursue climate action through insular, solitary policies. Global warming cannot be mitigated by air-conditioning our little pockets and corners of the world,” President Ruto emphasized.
H.E. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya speaking at the Africa Climate Summit (Courtesy photo)
President Kagame echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that it was time to take decisive actions to curtail climate change and not assign blame or point fingers. “The more pragmatic approach is for Africa to be a central player in the search for global climate solutions,” he said while advocating for proactive measures to combat climate change.
President Suluhu noted that Africans must seize the moment and capitalize on its potential to offer solutions to green growth and decarbonization. “We can no longer afford to address economic development, climate change and African poverty in isolation,” she explained.
President Akufo-Addo called for radical action to combat climate change on the continent, recognizing the situation’s urgency. “It is obvious that we have to act swiftly and decisively to mitigate these effects and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” he asserted.
President Afwerki called for Africa to mobilize its resources and reduce its dependence on external aid. At the same time, President Zewde emphasized the importance of a united African stance on issues affecting its people. Consequently, President Kiir supported this stance, highlighting Africa’s need to utilize its vast renewable energy resources to counter the adverse effects of climate change.
On the other hand, President Akufo-Addo called for streamlined access to international climate finance to complement national funding. President Ruto additionally called for a more equitable global financial system to lessen Africa’s debt burden, asserting that a just financial framework would enhance economic stability and address the climate change crisis.
President Ruto also underscored the disproportionate impact of global warming on Africa, even though the continent contributes relatively little to global pollution. He cited instances where African countries, including Kenya, had to divert funds from development to cope with climate change effects, increasing debt distress.
Concurrently, the President of Kenya called for a shift in the allocation of global climate change funds, emphasizing the need for funds to reach countries facing genuine climate challenges. “There is a need to have a conversation about a carbon tax to raise resources to finance Africa’s development,” he insisted.
On her part, Ms. Leyen acknowledged the significance of the Africa Climate Summit in preparing for COP28, ensuring that African voices are heard globally. She emphasized the importance of collective action for a win-win outcome.
President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at the Africa Climate Summit in Kenya
In summary, the Africa Climate Summit united African leaders to reaffirm their commitment to addressing climate change and finding sustainable solutions for the continent’s development. These leaders called for global collaboration, equitable financing, and proactive measures to combat the pressing climate crisis.