Kenyan President, COP28 President-Designate, And African Union Commission Chair Unite For Climate Action

In preparation for the Africa Climate Summit, Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto, COP28 President-Designate Dr Sultan Al Jaber, and African Union Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat have jointly pledged their commitment to ambitious climate action in this pivotal year of the Global Stocktake.

Africa, with its abundant renewable energy potential and youthful population, holds promise for sustainable growth. However, despite contributing less than 3% of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions, the continent faces climate vulnerability. As the Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi approaches and COP28 in the UAE looms 87 days away, these leaders emphasize the critical importance of building adaptive capacities and achieving the 1.5°C target.

Both the Africa Climate Summit and COP28 mark significant steps towards accelerating a just and equitable energy transition that supports low-carbon, high-growth, and sustainable socio-economic models. The leaders advocate for increased climate finance, including the $100 billion annual commitment, to turn climate goals into actions across Africa.

Furthermore, they emphasize the need to strengthen mitigation efforts, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing a responsible energy transition. Clean and efficient energy can boost Africa’s economic growth and improve lives.

The leaders pledge to prioritize adaptation and loss and damage, including the operationalization of the loss and damage fund. They aim to build momentum for a robust Global Goal on Adaptation at COP28 and address the urgent need to transform food and health systems while embedding nature and biodiversity protection in climate action.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future, the leaders welcome their involvement in the Africa Climate Summit and COP28.

Africa has the potential to lead the way in the energy transition and sustainable development. The leaders call on all stakeholders to engage constructively and unite against the climate crisis, emphasizing the urgency of action.

In Kenya and the UAE, the political will to tackle the climate crisis is showcased, with these leaders emphasizing the importance of unity, action, and delivery in the fight against climate change.