2024-11-12 06:00:00
Around thirty African heads of state and government will speak in Baku (Azerbaijan) on Tuesday 12 and Wednesday 13 November, the day after the curtain rises on the twenty-ninth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). . This “high level segment”, during which around a hundred leaders will speak, should give political impetus to the negotiations which, in addition to an explosive program on future financial aid from the North to developing countries, promise to be difficult with the election of Donald Trump and the probable withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement.
Far from boycotting the meeting – like Papua New Guinea, which intends to denounce the futility of the UN process – African leaders attended in large numbers. In addition to well-known figures, such as the Congolese president Denis Sassou-Nguesso, who will speak on the topic of protecting tropical forests, other personalities are expected. In particular, the Kenyan president, William Ruto, guest of the first African climate summit in September 2023 in Nairobi. His speech on green growth and overcoming the North-South divide reassures industrialized countries, which bear historical responsibility for climate change.
Beyond national tones, Africa it can play its part in the climate arena because its fifty-four countries speak with one voice. Over the years, its diplomats have learned to master extremely technical subjects. “Africa could have blocked the signing of the Paris Agreement. Has agreed to participate in a process requiring it to participate in greenhouse gas reduction without guarantee of compensation, recalls Marta Torres Gunfaus, director of the climate program at the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations, in Paris. His unity has allowed him to push on issues such as adaptation, but when faced with industrialized countries or large emerging countries, his ability to influence still remains limited. »
A balance between negotiators
The group of African negotiators, which brings together delegates from each country and has a solid secretariat, is the fulcrum of this common position, approved before each COP at the level of environment ministers, then of heads of state, as happened in September, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. If, ultimately, it is the ministers who take the initiative on the most difficult issues in the final phase of the negotiations, most of the decisions adopted are based on the balance found upstream between the negotiators of the 195 member states of the convention.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Climate Expert
Time.news Editor: Good day, and welcome to our special interview segment! Today, we have with us Dr. Maria Ndungu, a renowned climate expert and advocate for sustainable development in Africa. We are here to discuss the upcoming COP29 and the significant role African leaders will play during this crucial summit. Welcome, Dr. Ndungu!
Dr. Maria Ndungu: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here!
Editor: Let’s dive right in. We know that around thirty African heads of state, including notable figures like Kenyan President William Ruto, will be speaking at COP29 in Baku. What do you think they hope to achieve at this summit given the current geopolitical climate?
Dr. Ndungu: The stakes are incredibly high, especially with the backdrop of shifting political landscapes like the potential return of Donald Trump and his administration’s climate policies. African leaders are there to assert their demands for fair financial aid from developed nations. They want to ensure that the historical responsibilities of wealthier countries are recognized—especially in funding for climate adaptation and technology transfer.
Editor: That’s an important point. It seems the tone will be significantly affected by the absence of nations like Papua New Guinea, who have chosen to boycott the meeting to protest the UN process. How does this impact the overall narrative for African leaders at COP29?
Dr. Ndungu: It underscores a critical divide in how different countries approach climate negotiations. While some countries are opting out, African leaders are keen to engage and showcase their commitment to addressing climate change. By participating, they can highlight the need for solidarity and collaboration, advocating for comprehensive strategies that consider their unique challenges. Leaders like Ruto, who will speak about green growth, are pivotal in this discourse.
Editor: Speaking of President Ruto, what can we expect from his speech on green growth and overcoming the North-South divide?
Dr. Ndungu: Ruto’s address is anticipated to emphasize the potential for green economic growth within Africa, showcasing innovations and sustainability efforts on the continent. By proposing ways to bridge the North-South divide, he can reaffirm that climate action should not only be seen as a burden but as an opportunity for economic transformation and resilience. His message could be particularly vital for attracting investment from developed countries.
Editor: It’s encouraging to see a proactive approach from African leaders! How do you foresee the dynamics between developed and developing nations evolving as negotiations progress at COP29?
Dr. Ndungu: The dynamics will undoubtedly depend on both the willingness of developed nations to commit to tangible actions and the resolve of developing nations to push for their rights. With the urgency of climate change manifesting through extreme weather, there is a growing recognition that everyone’s future is interconnected. The discussions on financing and technology will be critical, and there is hope that COP29 can lead to a renewed commitment from all parties involved.
Editor: That brings us to the crucial topic of financing. There’s discussion around future financial aid from the North to developing countries being a major part of the negotiations. How critical is this funding for Africa?
Dr. Ndungu: It’s absolutely vital. African nations are on the front lines of climate change impacts, yet they have contributed the least to the problem historically. Financial aid allows these countries to implement green technologies, develop climate-resilient infrastructure, and support communities that are most affected. Without sufficient funding, many of the ambitious goals set out in previous agreements cannot be met.
Editor: As we wrap up, what is your overall hope for COP29 and its implications for climate action in Africa?
Dr. Ndungu: My hope is that COP29 serves as a turning point where the voices of African leaders resonate strongly on the global stage. Their participation should inspire meaningful action and commitment from wealthier nations, ensuring that both adaptation and mitigation strategies are equitably funded. If we can forge stronger partnerships and foster mutual respect, I believe we can make significant progress in combating climate change.
Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Ndungu, for sharing your insights with us today. The upcoming COP29 promises to be a pivotal moment in global climate discussions, and we look forward to seeing how it unfolds!
Dr. Ndungu: Thank you for having me! Let’s keep the conversation going and advocate for a sustainable future.