African Group of Negotiators on climate change to prioritize multi-stakeholder engagement ahead of COP28 talks
The African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN) has committed to multi-stakeholder engagements ahead of the COP28 climate change talks, in a bid to develop a unified position on climate change and development aspirations for Africa. The AGN Chair, Ephraim Mwepya Shitima, emphasized the importance of engaging with and providing technical guidance and support to all stakeholders, from political leaders to civil society, to ensure Africa’s success at the negotiations. He also noted the significance of continuous engagement among stakeholders to maintain a united voice for Africa.
In addition to their commitment to multi-stakeholder engagements, the AGN is also partnering with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to host a capacity training workshop for young negotiators, with a focus on young women. The move comes in support of gender equality and the recognition that women are on the frontlines of climate change, not just in Africa, but worldwide. Shitima believes that increasing the number of female negotiators will add to the strength of the AGN as a negotiating block.
The Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) convened stakeholders from across Africa to strategize for COP28. The two-day Continental Strategy workshop in Addis Ababa aimed to shape a common framework for the continent’s advocacy and participation at COP-28. Executive Director of PACJA, Dr. Mithika Mwenda, commended the AGN for its key role in pushing Africa’s agenda in the climate change negotiation process, and called on African governments to get involved in the technical processes to ensure unity of purpose.
According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa’s Director for Technology, Climate Change, and Natural Resources management, Jean Paul, Africa requires over USD 400 billion for climate adaptation by 2030. UNECA’s analysis highlights the increasing costs associated with climate change impacts in Africa, and emphasizes the need for a coordinated approach to addressing them.
The AGN Chair’s priorities for 2023, highlighted at the engagement, aim to build on the successes achieved at COP-27 and strengthen areas where they did not do well. With continuous engagement and support from all stakeholders, the AGN hopes to present a united front for Africa at COP28.
