As the world gears up for the pivotal COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, African leaders and stakeholders are emphasizing the urgent need for unity and significantly increased funding from the international community. During a side event at COP29 in Baku, concerns were raised about the inadequacy of current climate finance commitments, prompting a unified call for action on behalf of Africa.
The recent consultative forum of African non-state actors, held in Addis Ababa alongside the COP29 dialogue, provided a platform to discuss these pressing issues and protect Africa’s interests ahead of the upcoming summit. Under the theme “Securing Climate Justice for Africa’s Multipolar World in the Year of Reparation,” the forum brought together climate justice advocates, policymakers, and experts to analyze COP29 outcomes and strategize for COP30.
Key discussions focused on climate finance, adaptation strategies, just transitions, and accountability for global powers. A recurring theme throughout these meetings was the widespread dissatisfaction with the current level of climate finance. African nations argue that financial commitments from developed countries fall significantly short of what is needed to address the continent’s climate crisis.
Mithika Mwenda, Executive Director of the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), highlighted Africa’s demand for $1.3 trillion in climate funding but noted that only $300 billion has been targeted. “That may sound like a significant amount for Africa, but it’s negligible compared to what is required to tackle the climate crisis,” he stated. “We will continue to fight for what we need.”
Mwenda emphasized that Africa requires substantial funding to build resilience against climate impacts and pursue a just transition. He called for this funding to be provided as grants rather than loans, ensuring it reaches communities most vulnerable to climate change effects. “What we need is money that is not tied to credit,” he added.
The forum also discussed the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under the previous administration, which participants recognized as a setback but expressed hope would be temporary. “We believe this will be temporary,” Mwenda said, expressing optimism that the U.S. would eventually rejoin global efforts to combat climate change.
However, this withdrawal underscored the necessity for Africa to diversify its partnerships and continue advocating for its interests on the world stage. As COP30 approaches, African countries are committed to fostering a more equitable and effective global response to the climate crisis.
Leaders are calling for recognition that emergency climate action is a shared responsibility requiring international cooperation and unity. Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving climate justice while seeking the necessary resources and support to protect its communities and build a sustainable future.
The Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), founded in 2008, has grown into one of Africa’s largest civil society forums on climate change and sustainable development, with over 1,000 member organizations advocating for climate justice across the continent. As the continent prepares for COP30, African leaders are determined to secure a fair share of global climate funding and ensure that their voices are heard in shaping future policies aimed at addressing climate change challenges.
