The 12th Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa (CCDA-XII) commenced on August 31, 2024, in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Key stakeholders, including Jacques Assahoré Konan, Hanan Morsy, and Josefa Correia Sacko, addressed the urgent need for innovative financing to combat climate change in Africa. Despite contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, Africa faces severe impacts from climate change, underscoring the necessity for financial support to implement effective adaptation strategies.
Hanan Morsy highlighted a significant shortfall in climate finance, revealing that only a fraction of the estimated $1.3 trillion needed has been mobilized. African countries require approximately USD 3 trillion to implement their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2030. The conference aims to explore solutions and partnerships for a low-carbon future, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing climate challenges. CCDA-XII is organized by ClimDev-Africa, in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the African Development Bank, and will run until September 2, 2024.
In addition to the discussions at CCDA-XII, the ongoing Climate Summit in Dubai, COP28, has sparked controversy over the number of delegates from Nigeria attending. The summit includes over 97,000 delegates from more than 100 countries, with Nigerian representatives from various sectors, including government officials, business leaders, environmentalists, and youth organizations. The Nigerian Presidency has clarified that the summit's delegates list reflects participation from diverse sectors and is not solely government-sponsored.
Dubai's climate diplomacy faces challenges due to its reliance on fossil fuels and concerns about human rights abuses. Critics argue that the conference may not bring significant benefits to the Emirati people or address their human rights concerns. The outcome of COP28 will determine the progress made on climate change and highlight Dubai's efforts to enhance its global influence through hosting the conference.
Meanwhile, the Climate Action Africa Forum 2024 (CAAF24) is set to take place on June 19th and 20th in Lagos, Nigeria. The forum will bring together influential thought leaders and environmental champions from organizations such as the African Development Bank, Afreximbank, and the World Bank. With over 3,600 registered attendees, CAAF24 aims to be a hub for climate action and sustainable energy transition in Africa, featuring a lineup of prominent speakers and workshops focused on innovative solutions for climate adaptation and resilience in the continent. [a32e0d5c] [366310d6]