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Ph:DR: It is time to put Africa’s interests first and make this summit a beacon of hope for climate justice on the continent.
Considered the first climate summit in Africa, the African Climate Summit, scheduled for September 4-8, has already been the subject of intense debate and excitement among environmentalists across the continent. . A crucial question looms large on this subject: Will Africa’s needs and aspirations really be prioritized at this summit or will they be sacrificed in the face of pressure from foreign groups? What Africans expect above all from this summit is a firm commitment to the gradual elimination of fossil fuels on the continent.
Climate protection activists in Africa have not minced their words. They denounced the host of the event, HE William Ruto, the President of Kenya, and the African Heads of State and Government Committee on Climate Change (CAHOSCC) for allegedly favoring Western interests over those of Africa. What Africans expect above all from this summit is a firm commitment to the gradual elimination of fossil fuels on the continent, to massively exploit Africa’s potential in terms of renewable energies.
The call to phase out fossil fuels is not only an environmental issue, but also a justice issue. Rich countries are historically responsible for the climate crisis, as they have contributed disproportionately to it. These countries must meet their obligations not only by reducing their greenhouse gas emissions to zero, but also by providing substantial financial support to poorer countries vulnerable to climate change so that they can cope with the devastating effects of climate change. climate crisis.
In their quest for solutions to the energy and climate crises, Africa and other emerging regions are increasingly overwhelmed by what can be called “real false solutions”. Indeed, they often consist of for-profit projects implemented by companies that profit from the climate crisis and contribute to it by perpetuating the use of fossil fuels.
Unfortunately, these programs tend to have devastating consequences for the most vulnerable populations who bear the brunt of the effects of climate change. Kenya, for example, is amending the Climate Change Act of 2016 to include provisions relating to carbon markets. This type of so-called solution should be avoided, as it encourages polluters to continue polluting as long as they can “pay as compensation” for their emissions, usually in a developing country vulnerable to climate change, at the expense of local populations.
African hopes rest imperatively on a rapid and equitable transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. The call to phase out fossil fuels and harness Africa’s abundant renewable energy potential stems from a deep understanding of the region’s specific needs. Rather than replicating past development models relying on fossil fuels, Africa can take a leap forward by adopting greener and more sustainable solutions. Solar power and wind power, for example, can contribute to Africa’s progress while closing its energy gap and boosting economic growth.
Postponing this transition in favor of increased pollution is a perilous choice. Indeed, climate change is not waiting for us to decide when to make a just energy transition, and any hesitation will make us spectators as disasters claim lives and destroy livelihoods. The gas rush in Africa, marked by the desire of European countries to obtain African gas to meet their energy needs due to the war between Ukraine and Russia, is compromising the energy needs and development objectives of the continent.
Previous investments in fossil fuels across the continent have caused environmental destruction, social unrest and conflict; For countries like Kenya, which have borne the brunt of these consequences, doubling down on fossil fuels would be a serious mistake. The most affected countries and the continent as a whole have no interest in following this approach. Continued investment in fossil fuels hinders, rather than promotes, the potential of green, affordable and decentralized renewable energy. Therefore, fossil gas or other fossil fuel projects have no place in Africa’s energy future. What we need is substantial financing for the fight against climate change which does not increase the debt and which allows us to face the climate crisis and protect our populations.
As the summit takes place, its importance lies in the solutions that can be proposed. This meeting constitutes an opportunity to promote real change for the benefit of the populations who suffer the most from the effects of climate change. As the continent’s main climate platform, summit participants should not only debate issues, but also actively propose solutions tailored to Africa’s specific challenges. To truly be a leader in climate change, we must design solutions adapted to the needs of populations most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. This African summit should propose solutions to African problems, ensuring that its results truly contribute to a sustainable future.
The inseparable nature of climate protection measures and access to renewable energy cannot be overemphasized. Sustainable development in Africa requires the adoption of ecological strategies and the need to give priority to the development of renewable energy sources. These factors cannot be considered separately; on the contrary, they play a vital role in implementing a resilient, inclusive and equitable growth plan for the continent. By aligning development activities with climate finance and renewable energy, Africa can both address environmental challenges and lay the foundations for sustainable development.
Therefore, the summit can be a turning point for Africa to regain its place in the fight against climate change.
African leaders must seize this opportunity to prioritize justice and uphold the aspirations of the people. By gradually eliminating fossil fuels, promoting renewable energies and mobilizing to finance the fight against climate change, Africa can reorient its development and define a path that not only preserves the environment, but also empowers populations the means to take care of themselves for future generations.
It is time to put Africa’s interests first and make this summit a beacon of hope for climate justice on the continent. (Source : 350.org)
