The first African Climate Summit concluded in Nairobi with the adoption of a historic declaration. Under the impetus of Kenyan President William Ruto, African leaders have called for international mobilization to face the challenge of climate change on the continent.
The Nairobi Declaration, the result of this meeting, constitutes a real action plan for green growth in Africa. The signatories of this text call on the international community to support the efforts of African countries in the fight against global warming. In particular, they call for massive investments and a reform of the international financial system.
The statement also urges developed countries to help increase Africa’s renewable energy generation capacity from 56 gigawatts in 2022 to at least 300 gigawatts by 2030. This measure aims to tackle energy poverty. and to strengthen the global supply of clean and cost-effective energy.
In addition, African leaders are calling for restructuring and debt relief for countries on the continent. Indeed, the debt burden weighs heavily on African economies and hampers their ability to invest in green projects.
Finally, the statement proposes the establishment of a carbon tax regime, which would include a tax on fossil fuel trade, shipping and aviation. This tax could be reinforced by a global tax on financial transactions.
This summit was also an opportunity to announce significant investments in renewable energy in Africa. President Ruto claimed that $23 billion in investment pledges have been made, including $4.5 billion from the United Arab Emirates.
This summit marks an important step in the collective awareness of the climate emergency in Africa. African leaders have shown their determination to face the challenges posed by global warming and to harness the continent’s potential for green growth.
In conclusion, the Nairobi Declaration provides a solid framework for concerted action by Africa in the fight against climate change. African leaders are calling for international support and massive investment to enable the continent to realize its full potential in the transition to a green economy.