Africa Climate Summit: A Call for Resilience, Justice, and Bold Action

The inaugural Africa Climate Summit started on a powerful note, with key speakers across Africa and the world shedding light on the urgent need for global climate action, especially in Africa With leading voices converging to discuss the continent's climate future, the summit aims to shift paradigms and foster collaboration, both within and beyond Africa's borders - signaling the continent's unwavering commitment to address the climate crisis and championing a green growth trajectory.

"Clearly, this is no ordinary summit," stated President William Ruto at the opening ceremony. A common thread in his remarks emphasized the need to shift from traditional discussions that exacerbate divisions - such as north versus south or developed versus developing. He noted, "We are not here just to talk about Africa or climate change in the usual way." Instead, Ruto underscored the necessity of understanding that economic development and environmental stewardship must coexist and reinforce each other, and not be cast in opposition.

Let me be clear, these conversations are necessary. Africa’s carbon footprint remains small, but the human toll of climate change is disproportionately high.

The president was candid about Africa's unique position in the global climate dialogue, emphasizing, "Let me be clear, these conversations are necessary. Africa’s carbon footprint remains small, but the human toll of climate change is disproportionately high." The continent's urgent need to address the damage inflicted by extreme weather events and climate-induced challenges resonated deeply with the audience. Yet, he astutely pointed out that while the interplay of needs and responsibilities is complex, they should never result in a deadlock.

President Ruto highlighted the potential of turning these challenges into opportunities. "Delivering prosperity and wellbeing for Africa’s growing population without pushing the world deeper into climate disaster is not an abstract proposition or mere wishful thinking," he stated, underlining that a shift towards an opportunity-oriented approach could elevate Africa to unprecedented prosperity.

President Ruto's remarks harmonised well with those of Hon. Soipan Tuya, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change & Forestry, who emphasised the central objective of the summit - to envision an ecologically responsible Africa, powered by sustainable financing. "We have a golden opportunity to present a bold vision of Africa—a continent bursting with potential," she said. Her remarks centred around Africa's strategic leveraging of human and natural resources to adopt a low carbon economy, pointing out that the climate discourse has evolved into a question of justice. "It's about justice," Tuya highlighted, advocating for solutions derived from inclusive perspectives.

Anne Samante, representing the National Indigenous Peoples Coordination Committee on Climate Change, highlighted the paramount role that indigenous communities play in protecting Africa's precious ecosystems. "Our traditional knowledge and lifestyles have long fostered resilience and adaptation to climatic changes," she stated before adding, "Indigenous communities are not just victims; we bring solutions," she asserted, calling for better integration of indigenous wisdom into policy frameworks.

Elizabeth Wathuti, a youth climate justice activist, threw a spotlight on Africa's youth's potential as indispensable agents of change. Referring to the African Youth Climate Declaration, she said, "Our objective is to amplify youth participation in climate governance plans, creating avenues towards sustainable development and green growth," she emphasised, highlighting the indispensable role of youth in Africa's climate journey.

Josefa Sacko, Africa Union commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture, drew attention to the economic distress climate change has brought to Africa. She pointed out that some nations spend a whopping 50% of their GDP on climate-induced disasters annually. Despite these challenges, she championed Africa's proactive stance and highlighted the need for investments that align with Africa's aspirations.

Josefa offered a riveting perspective on Africa's distinct position in the global climate discourse stating that while Africa continues to urge global partners to fulfill their commitments, the continent is also prioritising our initiatives to bolster resilience across the continent. “It is essential that Africa evolves from merely being a recipient to engaging in investments that align with our aspirations,” she stated.

Mithika Mwenda, a Climate Justice Activist, critically highlighted the financial disparity in global climate contributions and Africa's needs. He emphasized, " It’s evident that Africa is contributing more than its fair share towards addressing this crisis. We must deliberate on achieving a financial balance between adaptation and mitigation, stated Mithinka before adding,” Delaying will only inflate future costs!” His sentiments mirrored the collective plea for commitment and accountability from developed nations.

Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), underscored the summit's mission. Speaking from his unique position of understanding both international climate bureaucracy and the ground realities of developing nations, he said, "Together, as a global community, we must strategize our next steps." Simon strongly urged the importance of transitioning away from carbon-intensive methods, he stated, "Africa stands as a key player in this journey, showcasing tremendous potential and innovative prowess." As the world inches closer to COP 28, Stiell emphasized the urgency of reducing emissions to keep global temperature rise within the 1.5-degree threshold.

Throughout the day one of the summit, a clear message echoed: Africa is not merely a passive player in the climate dialogue. The continent is proactively seeking and implementing solutions, expecting global partners to meet their commitments. The call is for unity, innovation, and sustainable growth. With the strong start at the Africa Climate Summit, the stage is set for transformative actions that resonate with the aspirations of the continent. As leaders deliberate over the next few days, the hope remains that Africa will carve its path as a beacon of green growth, harnessing its vast resources for a sustainable, brighter future.