The African Climate Summit scheduled for this September in Nairobi, Kenya, is expected to provide a critical opportunity for people to rise above adversity and forge a path towards a sustainable and equitable future.
CEO of African Wildlife Foundation, Kaddu Sebunya says the climate change conference comes at a time when the African continent faces an unprecedented challenge of changing climate, further stating that the moment's urgency cannot be overstated. "From droughts to floods, our communities are on the frontlines of a crisis threatening our environment, economies, cultures, and way of life," Sebunya said.
He said Africa's landscapes are as diverse as its people, and it is important to harness this diversity as a strength in the face of climate change. Sebunya said rural communities, women, children, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities disproportionately bear the brunt of climate impacts all all add to the diversity of Africa.
Moreover, he said addressing the climate crisis hinges on fostering resilience within communities while ensuring that funding translates into actionable initiatives.
"At the heart of this summit lies the call for an equitable transition to renewable energy. This is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity to harness the potential of Africa's abundant renewable resources. By embracing energy solutions that are inclusive and community-owned, Africa can not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also uplift its people out of energy poverty."
However, Sebunya notes that the pursuit of a sustainable future must be rooted in accountability. Further that developed countries bear historical responsibility for the climate crisis and must fulfil their obligations to support Africa's adaptation and mitigation efforts. He further urges for people to emphasize the Common but Differentiated Responsibilities principle to ensure that global climate action is fair and just. He also believes that there must be an African economic development model that supports Africa's economic aspirations but not at the expense of wildlife and wild lands.
“As we delve into these pivotal dialogues, it's crucial to empower every community to define their own path to resilience,” Sebunya said, adding that balancing rights with opportunity is key, especially in the global north, where emphasis on rights is paramount.
“The time for action is now, and our commitment to climate justice will define the legacy we leave for generations to come. Together, we can rise above challenges, seize opportunities, and chart a course toward a resilient Africa that thrives in harmony with nature. Let us seize this moment and turn it into a legacy of courage, compassion, and hope,” he said.
CEO of African Wildlife Foundation, Kaddu Sebunya says the climate change conference comes at a time when the African continent faces an unprecedented challenge of changing climate, further stating that the moment's urgency cannot be overstated. "From droughts to floods, our communities are on the frontlines of a crisis threatening our environment, economies, cultures, and way of life," Sebunya said.
He said Africa's landscapes are as diverse as its people, and it is important to harness this diversity as a strength in the face of climate change. Sebunya said rural communities, women, children, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities disproportionately bear the brunt of climate impacts all all add to the diversity of Africa.
Moreover, he said addressing the climate crisis hinges on fostering resilience within communities while ensuring that funding translates into actionable initiatives.
"At the heart of this summit lies the call for an equitable transition to renewable energy. This is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity to harness the potential of Africa's abundant renewable resources. By embracing energy solutions that are inclusive and community-owned, Africa can not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also uplift its people out of energy poverty."
However, Sebunya notes that the pursuit of a sustainable future must be rooted in accountability. Further that developed countries bear historical responsibility for the climate crisis and must fulfil their obligations to support Africa's adaptation and mitigation efforts. He further urges for people to emphasize the Common but Differentiated Responsibilities principle to ensure that global climate action is fair and just. He also believes that there must be an African economic development model that supports Africa's economic aspirations but not at the expense of wildlife and wild lands.
“As we delve into these pivotal dialogues, it's crucial to empower every community to define their own path to resilience,” Sebunya said, adding that balancing rights with opportunity is key, especially in the global north, where emphasis on rights is paramount.
“The time for action is now, and our commitment to climate justice will define the legacy we leave for generations to come. Together, we can rise above challenges, seize opportunities, and chart a course toward a resilient Africa that thrives in harmony with nature. Let us seize this moment and turn it into a legacy of courage, compassion, and hope,” he said.
