At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, African scientists and experts are urging global leaders to prioritise Africa’s needs in the fight against climate change, focusing on funding, adaptation, and fair policies.
The conference, themed ‘In Solidarity for a Green World,’ began on November 11, and has brought together delegates from across the globe.
African experts are pressing for the formal recognition of the continent’s unique challenges under the Paris Agreement, noting Africa’s minimal contribution to global emissions but high vulnerability to climate impacts.
These impacts, including severe droughts, floods, and health crises, threaten agriculture and communities across the region.
The African group at COP29 is also advocating for the Loss and Damage Fund to be activated promptly to aid communities facing climate-related hardships.
Luckson Zvobgo, a climate researcher from the University of Cape Town, emphasised the need for global adaptation indicators that are meaningful to African countries.
This includes funding for National Adaptation Plans and other climate strategies. He said Africa must “prioritise indicators to track support for adaptation funding, capacity-building, and technology transfer.”
Chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), Ali Mohamed, highlighted the importance of a new climate finance goal to meet the real costs developing nations face, calling for at least $1.3 trillion annually for Africa.
Mohamed explained that adaptation efforts in Africa require significant resources for projects like resilient agriculture, water infrastructure, and healthcare.
Young experts such as Theletsa Mpholle are also advocating for increased funding, especially to train young Africans in “green” skills for sustainable jobs.
Mpholle pointed out that Africa needs climate funds to prepare for future challenges, stating;
“Young people are the future leaders and drivers of the African continent.”
