15 February 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Kenyan President William Ruto urged for enhanced international financial aid and collaboration to lessen the effects of continental climate change during a meeting on the sidelines of the African Union Summit.
The gathering focused on implementing a report on halting the effects of continental climate change. Participants included President Ruto, African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Development Ambassador Josepha Sacco, Ethiopian Minister of Agriculture Dr. Girma Amente, and other agricultural officials.
President Ruto emphasized Africa’s promising advancements in technology, which he believes can be harnessed to tackle climate change pressures. He also stressed the need for stronger international financial support to lessen the continent’s vulnerability to climate change.
He called on international donors and financial institutions to assist Africa’s strategic development efforts in the face of climate change. He further emphasized the importance of reinforcing the Pan-African Green Industrialization Initiative to promote cooperation in developing renewable energy alternatives.
Ambassador Sacco, the African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, emphasized the significant impact of climate change on Africa’s social and economic development. He underlined the need for effective implementation of regional and international agreements and laws to adequately address climate change impacts.
Sacco announced the establishment of a continental climate finance department within the African Union to assist member states in building capacity for climate change response. He also criticized donor countries and international organizations for failing to uphold their commitments to supporting the continent in mitigating climate change. He concluded by reiterating the need for Africa to strengthen its own financial capacity to combat climate change.
President Ruto and Commissioner Sacco’s statements highlight the urgent need for increased international support and collaboration to help African nations mitigate the devastating effects of climate change. With Africa bearing the brunt of the consequences despite contributing minimally to the problem, international cooperation is crucial in ensuring a sustainable future for the continent.
