At COP29, Claver Gatete of the ECA made an urgent plea for immediate climate action to combat the severe impacts of climate change on Africa, which suffers despite contributing minimally to global emissions. He proposed a five-step vision emphasizing the need for leveraging critical minerals, enhancing carbon capture, setting ambitious climate finance targets, expediting clean energy transitions, and fostering global collaboration. Gatete highlighted the disproportionate burden of climate change on African economies and called for equitable resource allocation and global support to build a resilient future.
At COP29, Claver Gatete, the UN Under-Secretary-General and ECA Executive Secretary, delivered a resonant call for urgent climate action, highlighting that the cost of inaction far surpasses that of investments aimed at building a resilient Africa. Gatete emphasized that despite contributing minimally to global emissions, Africa suffers disproportionately, with economies losing an average of 5% to 15% of GDP annually due to climate disruptions. He proposed a five-step vision to transition Africa from vulnerability to leadership in green growth, which includes harnessing critical minerals for economic transformation, bolstering carbon capture, establishing a robust target for climate finance, expediting the clean energy transition, and urging global efforts to cut emissions. Addressing the pressing issues caused by climate change across the continent, such as rising sea levels and droughts affecting food security, Gatete stated, “The daily realities grow worse for Africa. From infrastructure damage to health risks, the cost of these disruptions is mounting. We cannot afford to wait.” In leveraging Africa’s rich critical minerals, Gatete pointed to the potential for renewable energy development. He cited partnerships like that of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia as models for economic zones that promote energy transition, asserting, “Africa can lead in clean energy production, create jobs, and promote sustainable economic growth.” Furthermore, he emphasized the necessity of setting a high target for climate finance through the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), which aligns with Africa’s goals for the needed resources to combat climate change. Gatete revealed that public finance alone will not suffice; rather, private sector investments and debt relief are essential. He stated, “The transition to renewable energy is unstoppable. With coordinated policies and investment, Africa can position itself at the forefront of the green economy.” Gatete warned of the dire consequences of inaction, citing the Global Commission on Adaptation’s findings that each dollar invested in climate adaptation yields significant returns. He implored global partners to meet their commitments to support Africa, asserting that “every delay and every disinformation increases risks for us all.” The ECA, in collaboration with key organizations such as the African Union, is advocating for a fairer climate finance system that empowers Africa. The ultimate vision presented is of a thriving Africa, enriched by sustainable resources and innovative young entrepreneurs, ready to take its place in the global green economy. Mr. Gatete’s urgent message posits that the choice before the world is stark: invest now in a resilient future or bear greater costs in the years to come.
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has warned about the severe impacts of climate change on the continent, emphasizing that Africa, while contributing least to global emissions, bears the greatest brunt of climate disruptions. In response to this crisis, Claver Gatete articulated a comprehensive strategy at the COP29 that includes leveraging Africa’s critical natural resources and advocating for substantial financial support to achieve climate resilience. The importance of collaboration between global partners and Africa to address climate issues is paramount, as the continent faces deteriorating socio-economic conditions due to environmental changes. The discussion at COP29 represents a pivotal moment for Africa to seek action from international leaders to navigate the challenges posed by climate change effectively.
Claver Gatete’s address at COP29 underscored a crucial call for ambitious climate action focused on Africa’s transformation into a leader in green growth. The comprehensive five-step action plan highlights the urgent need for effective investment in climate resilience and renewable energy resources. With Africa suffering disproportionately from climate impacts, Gatete’s plea for global cooperation and financial commitment positions the continent at a critical juncture, challenging the world to act now to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for Africa and beyond. The call to action serves not only as a warning about the high costs of inaction but also as a demand for climate justice and a commitment to equitable resource allocation.
Original Source: www.uneca.org
