Despite the failed finance COP29 talks, Africa graced the UN climate summit with multiple goals, and it has recorded various achievements. This includes a win for women, youth, and indigenous communities.
The most incredible win came through the youth and women getting an opportunity to air their opinions on the UN climate summit. From teenagers to aspiring and upcoming green energy entrepreneurs, African youth delegates got a chance to market their ideas and explain how global warming impacts young people in lower-income countries.
For instance, Save the Children UK followed Malawi, South Sudan, and Somalia youth. They include young and energetic Naomi, Nafiso, and Favour, who narrated how cyclones, heatwaves, and floods affected learning and typical income activities like farming.
Moreover, we witnessed top African women lead the fight against climate injustice. They included Jemimah Njuki, a UN Women leader, who was vocal about Africa’s need for equitable climate finance and equal gender rights in the climate sector. Other groups involved included FEMNET and the Women and Gender Constituency group.
Also, renewable energy was a priority for major stakeholders, where countries managed to secure investments from top foreign businesses. This was an extension of last year’s COP28 UAE discussions, where Africa was the best region to invest in renewable energy.
Despite the unexpected $250 annual climate finance offer, African negotiators managed to secure support funds. For instance, the Swedish Government pledged 200 million Swedish Krona (SEK) to the Loss and Damage Fund to reach the most vulnerable communities. This is in addition to the $763 million pledge towards the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
Therefore, there are wins to take back home after the unexpected turn of events at the Finance COP29. The continent can capitalize on such to create a climate-resilient and sustainable economy for everyone.
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