Kenya’s President Urges Developed Nations to Boost Climate Financing for Africa Ahead of COP28
In a rallying cry just two months before the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) scheduled for late November in Dubai, Kenya’s President William Ruto has called on developed countries to step up their financial support for climate action and technology transfer to Africa. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Africa Climate Week 2023 (ACW) in Nairobi, President Ruto emphasized the urgent need for these resources to help African nations manage their economies and societies sustainably in the face of climate threats.
President Ruto pointed out that Africa possesses vast wind and solar energy resources, which, if harnessed, could power the continent’s development, generate employment opportunities, safeguard local economies, and accelerate sustainable industrialization. However, he stressed that for this potential to be realized, financing and technology must be made available to developing countries in Africa. He further emphasized the importance of African unity in carrying the outcomes of ACW and the Africa Climate Summit to COP28.
Despite Africa’s per capita emissions being significantly lower than the global average, the continent bears a disproportionate burden of climate change impacts, including droughts, desertification, cyclones, food shortages, displacement, and migration. At the same time, Africa is rich in renewable energy, minerals, agriculture, and natural resources, positioning it to lead the way in green development.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged Africa’s minimal contribution to global emissions and called for immediate action to address the deadly climate extremes that affect not only Africa but also people worldwide. Guterres expressed confidence in Africa’s potential to become a hub of renewable energy and called on all nations to stand together to protect our planet.
African countries have the potential to become frontrunners in renewable energy, sustainable land use, and innovative technologies. This presents an opportunity to attract investments, facilitate technology transfer, and position African nations as leaders in the global transition to green development.
COP28, set to conclude the first Global Stocktake, will provide a critical assessment of the world’s progress in climate action and chart a course forward to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Key priorities at the conference will include scaling up climate finance, adaptation support, and operationalizing the fund for loss and damage.
The Africa Climate Week serves as a timely platform for regional stakeholders to exchange insights on overcoming barriers and realizing opportunities in various African countries. It showcases how Africa’s industrial growth can align with the climate goals of the Paris Agreement while fostering economic progress and mitigating environmental impacts.
Stakeholders from governments, multilateral institutions, civil society, academia, local communities, and the private sector are expected to actively engage in climate action discussions. The message is clear: effective climate action requires collaboration across borders, sectors, and disciplines.
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, emphasized the importance of Africa Climate Week as a catalyst for climate action and a just transition to a climate-resilient future. Andersen envisions Africa taking control of its destiny, becoming a green leader, and an economic powerhouse.
Achim Steiner, Administrator of the UN Development Programme, stressed that climate change is reshaping economies and lives. He highlighted that the Africa Climate Week will illustrate the implications of climate change for Africa and showcase solutions emerging from across the continent. Collaboration is key to integrating climate considerations into economic and development planning, ensuring inclusive, sustainable growth through low-emissions pathways.
Axel van Trotsenburg, Senior Managing Director of the World Bank, emphasized the significance of clean energy in Africa’s sustainable growth story. He highlighted that clean energy not only lifts underserved communities but also powers businesses, schools, hospitals, and creates jobs for young Africans. He called for concerted efforts to facilitate financing and help countries transition to low-carbon and clean energy opportunities, making Africa an integral part of the new climate economy.
Africa Climate Week (ACW) is the first of four Regional Climate Weeks scheduled for 2023. These events provide a platform for governments, businesses, practitioners, and civil society to showcase ongoing projects, policies, and practices that are already effecting positive change. ACW aims to inspire others to follow suit and amplify the collective voice of African parties in the upcoming COP28 negotiations, pushing for outcomes that drive meaningful shifts on both regional and global scales.
As the world counts down to COP28 in Dubai, President Ruto’s call for increased climate financing and technology transfer underscores the importance of global cooperation in addressing the climate crisis and supporting the sustainable development of Africa.
