African Heads of State pledge to push for sustainable solutions to climate change

African Heads of State and Government have affirmed their commitment to spearheading sustainable solutions to the climate crisis, recognizing the inextricable link between climate change and the continent's development.

The leaders, gathered at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre for the Africa Climate Summit, hosted by President William Ruto, emphasized the need for collaboration with developed nations and the fulfilment of climate action commitments.

The event featured prominent figures, including President Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and many others.

President Ruto, addressing the summit, declared Africa's intention to play a central role in solving the climate change challenge, stressing that it demands united efforts from all nations.

"We cannot pursue climate action through insular, solitary policies. Global warming cannot be mitigated by air-conditioning our little pockets and corners of the world," Ruto stated.

President Ruto lamented that Africa, despite being a minor contributor to pollution, faces the most severe consequences of global warming, diverting funds from development to address climate change impacts.

The President also called for a paradigm shift in the allocation of global climate change funds, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness.

"There is a need to have a conversation about a carbon tax to raise resources to finance Africa's development," he urged.

Meanwhile, President Ruto advocated for a fairer international financial system to alleviate Africa's debt burden and promote economic stability.

President Ruto presided over the launch of the Green Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap for Kenya, highlighting the nation's commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

President Kagame echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of taking decisive actions without resorting to a blame game.

"The more pragmatic approach is for Africa to be a central player in the search for global climate solutions," Kagame asserted.

President Suluhu called on Africans to capitalize on the continent's potential to contribute to green growth and decarbonization.

She emphasized that addressing economic development, climate change, and African poverty must no longer be isolated efforts.

“We can no longer afford to address economic development, climate change and African poverty in isolation,” Suluhu said.

President Akufo Addo underlined the urgency of radical action to combat climate change, emphasizing the need for swift and decisive measures to secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

“It is obvious that we have to act swiftly and decisively to mitigate these effects and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” Addo said.

Addo called for streamlined access to international climate finance to complement national funding. 

President Afwerki urged Africa to mobilize its own resources rather than relying on external aid.

He emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency.

President Zewde highlighted the importance of a unified African stance on issues affecting the continent, especially climate change. President Kiir emphasized the need to leverage Africa's vast renewable energy resources to combat climate change effectively.

Prominent international figures, including Moussa Faki Mahamat, Ursula von der Leyen, António Guterres, and Akinwumi Adesina, were in attendance.

Leyen highlighted the summit's significance in setting the stage for COP28, emphasizing the need for global cooperation to achieve a win-win outcome.

Madbouly underscored the pivotal role of climate action financing for Africa's success in addressing the climate change crisis.

The Africa Climate Summit stands as a testament to Africa's determination to lead the way in combating climate change and securing a sustainable future for the continent and the world.