Nairobi Declaration: African leaders urges international community to uphold its commitments

Africa Urges Global Action to Combat climate change leaders unite at Nairobi declaration
African leaders have issued a resounding call for global cooperation in the fight against climate change and the pursuit of sustainable development. President William Ruto and AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki spearheaded this momentous event, urging the international community to uphold its commitments, as stipulated in the Paris Summit for a New Global Financing Pact.

At the heart of their message is the principle that no nation should be forced to make a choice between advancing its development goals and taking meaningful climate action. This plea for equitable resource distribution was voiced at the Africa Climate Summit held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, dubbed “The African Leaders Nairobi Declaration on Climate Change.”

Their statement, delivered on Wednesday, was clear and resolute: “We call upon the global community
to act with urgency in reducing emissions, fulfilling its obligations, keeping past promises, and
supporting the continent in addressing climate change.”

The distinguished assembly included Presidents Salva Kiir of South Sudan, Julius Maada of Sierra Leone, Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia, Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, Idriss Deby of Chad, and DRC Congo Prime Minister Sama Lukonde Kyenge. Prominent figures such as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Angola Vice President Esperança da Costa, Namibia Vice President Nangolo Mbumba, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland, and former Nigeria President Olusegun Obasanjo joined them, alongside 66
ministers from various African nations.

One of the pivotal proposals put forth by the African leaders is the establishment of a global carbon
taxation regime. This would hold nations accountable for their carbon emissions and contribute to
financing climate-positive initiatives.

Additionally, the leaders emphasized the urgent need for affordable and accessible financial resources
to support climate-friendly investments. President of Kenya Dr William Ruto challenged the international community to address the inequities present in international development financial institutions and governance frameworks. He stressed that reforms in these areas, along with the mobilization of adequate financial resources, are crucial for Africa’s well-being and the success of climate action.

President Ruto highlighted the vast potential of the African continent in shaping the future of climate
action and green industrialization. He pointed to Africa’s youthful, resilient, and motivated human
capital, as well as its abundant natural resources and green energy potential, all of which position the
continent as a key driver of future sustainability efforts.

The Africa Climate Summit achieved notable success as governments, the private sector, multilateral
banks, and philanthropists committed a staggering $23 billion for green growth, mitigation, and adaptation projects across Africa. President Ruto underscored that the Nairobi Declaration marks the
beginning of a new phase in global climate action and sustainable development.

AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki echoed this sentiment, noting that the Nairobi Declaration had received unanimous endorsement. He pledged that the Africa Union would chart a roadmap for implementing this crucial declaration and called on African leaders to continue championing climate
justice, concrete action, and the fulfillment of commitments.

Faki stressed the importance of unity and collaboration in ensuring that Africa’s voice resonates on
the global stage. The message from Africa is clear: the time for collective action against climate change is now, and the continent is ready to lead the charge.