- Africans told to safeguard interests and unique circumstances that contribute negligently to global emissions
- This is despite the fact that the continent suffers the most due to its low capacity to adapt to adverse effects of climate change
Image: HANDOUT
African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change has called on climate stakeholders to keep the needs of the continent in focus as they prepare for COP28.
The 28th session of United Nations Climate Conference (COP28) will be held next month in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
AGN Chair Ephraim Shitima said Africans should not lose focus of the different capabilities and differing responsibilities of individual countries in addressing climate change.
Shitima said the stakeholders should take note of the equity principle which protects Africa as a continent that contributes negligently to global emissions.
He said the continent has suffered the most due to its low capacity to adapt to adverse effects of climate change.
He spoke in Nairobi during the official opening of a Pre-COP28 Strategy meeting organised by the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support.
“As you deliberate on the various themes during this crucial meeting, I urge you to keep in mind our special circumstances as Africa," Shitima said.
"This is in addition to the need for us to be allowed policy space and support to achieve sustainable development.
Delegates from more than 31 African countries attended the meeting.
“The equity principle is very important as it takes into consideration and safeguards our interests and unique circumstances as a continent that contributes just about four per cent to global emissions,” he said.
As the global conversation on the just transition gains momentum, Africa has repeatedly noted the importance for Africa to be accorded policy space to develop and achieve Sustainable Development Goals.
The argument is to ensure a fair and equitable shift to low-carbon and climate resilient development pathways.
African Group of Negotiators Experts Support team leader George Wamukoya, said there is need for continous engagement between scientists and negotiators to ensure Africa’s positions are watertight.
“As AGNES, we believe these interactions between scientists and negotiators are key in ensuring that our positions are framed to succeed," he said.
"This will enable negotiators to effectively engage their counterparts with facts and ensure that Africa’s voice is not just heard, but also respected and create the impact we all desire."
State Department of Environment and Climate Change, Principal Secretary Eng. Festus Ng’eno welcomed addition of other issues to support understanding of climate crisis and associated impacts.
“The impact on climate change to health as well as access to water for domestic, agricultural and industrial use is one area of growing concern," he said.
"It is my hope that these great minds will deliberate on how to handle climate related health issues, including malnutrition, hunger, and water access which are growing concerns on the continent."
The Pre-COP28 Strategy meeting has been convened to update negotiators on emerging areas of interest and discuss approaches for COP28.