African leaders demand $1.3T yearly climate fund at COP29
As COP29 approaches, African nations are united in their push for substantial, accessible climate finance.
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast— African environmental ministers are calling for developed nations to mobilize at least $1.3 trillion annually to combat climate change in developing countries, setting the stage for contentious negotiations at the upcoming COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, writes Winston Mwale.
The demand came as the 10th Special Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) concluded in Abidjan.
Ministers emphasized the need for a New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance to replace the unfulfilled $100 billion annual pledge made by rich nations in 2009.
"We want COP29 to deliver a bold commitment to address climate change," said Evans Njewa, chair of the Least Developed Countries Group.
"This is not just about promises; it's about providing the resources needed to protect the lives and livelihoods of millions on the frontlines of the climate crisis."
The ministers stressed that the new finance should be primarily grants and concessional loans to avoid burdening African economies with more debt.
They also called for urgent operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund and reforms in international financial institutions to better respond to Africa's needs.
Amos Wemanya, Greenpeace Africa Responsive Lead, warned against relying on carbon offsets and private finance.
"Rich countries should make polluters, especially the fossil industry, pay for the losses and damages caused to our communities," he said.
Climate finance experts view the $1.3 trillion figure as reflective of actual needs. I
skander Erzini Vernoit, director of Imal Initiative for Climate and Development, said, "The onus is now clearly on developed countries to come to Baku ready to provide the finance necessary to help the world to fulfil the Paris Agreement, or their commitment to the Paris Agreement will be in doubt."
As COP29 approaches, African nations are united in their push for substantial, accessible climate finance.
The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact global efforts to address climate change and support vulnerable communities.