On the final day of the three-day Africa Climate Summit, taking place in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 4-6, discussions are set to take place around climate innovations. From low-carbon resilient mobility and transport systems to efficient industrialisation, the Summit is discussing significant climate issues.
Meanwhile, Day 2 of the Summit, was marked by significant milestones and impactful discussions. African Heads of State and Government gathered to share their nations’ climate change declarations, and some historic moments occurred as these declarations were signed on the floor.
The Africa Climate Summit, Day 2, was marked by significant milestones and impactful discussions. African Heads of State and Government gathered to share their nations' climate change declarations, and some historic moments occurred as these declarations were signed on the floor.… pic.twitter.com/S6biIFKlhy
— Africa Climate Summit (@AfClimateSummit) September 6, 2023
However, health practitioners and experts attending the Summit have expressed displeasure with the exclusion of health on the main agenda despite its link with climate change.
The Africa Climate Summit theme is, ‘Driving Green Growth and Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World.’ The Nairobi Declaration aims to give the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) a common voice ahead of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to be held this year in the United Arab Emirates.
Ahmed Ouma Ogwell, the Acting Deputy Director General of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) expressed regret over the exclusion from the conference’s main agenda. He said that agriculture, health and development are suffering. So bringing the health discussion onto the agenda of the climate change platform is essential for Africa.
Meanwhile, African youth and children demanded climate action and justice at the Africa Climate Summit. Over 250 children present read out a memorandum to leaders and policymakers on how climate change affects them and how to formulate strategies that protect children against climate shocks.
UN Secretary General calls for end to use of fossil fuels
UN Secretary General, António Guterres on September 5, said that developed nations have to take responsibility for their role in rising global temperatures that have caused the climate crisis. Guterres called for an end to the use of fossil fuels which are largely seen as drivers of global warming, which in Africa has resulted in flooding, droughts and erratic rainfall patterns. This, Guterres said, has caused the deaths of thousands of people in Africa.
“And all countries must also operationalise the loss and damage fund proposed at COP28 this year.” Guterres added.