African leaders pledge bold action for green growth and climate resilience
African leaders from have pledged to undertake comprehensive actions to foster green growth, curb emissions, and bolster climate resilience.
As the African summit ends in Nairobi on September 6, 2023, the leaders announced a commitment to develop and implement policies, regulations, and incentives aimed at attracting investment in green growth and inclusive economies.
They emphasized the importance of tapping into local, regional, and global resources to facilitate sustainable development while mitigating climate change.
One of the standout pledges was their determination to spur economic growth and job creation while simultaneously limiting emissions. Leaders expressed their intention to leapfrog traditional industrial development in favor of green production and supply chains on a global scale. This approach aims to bolster sustainable industrialization and play a significant role in global decarbonization efforts.
African nations are setting their sights on climate-positive economic development plans, including expanding just energy transitions and renewable energy generation for industrial activities. These measures align with their commitment to sustainable agricultural practices that enhance food security while minimizing negative environmental impacts. Leaders also stressed the need to protect and enhance nature and biodiversity.
To address pressing environmental challenges, the leaders pledged to strengthen actions to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, deforestation, and desertification. They expressed their commitment to restoring degraded lands and achieving land degradation neutrality.
Continental collaboration emerged as a focal point, with leaders acknowledging its crucial role in advancing green growth. They highlighted the importance of regional and continental grid interconnectivity and vowed to accelerate the operationalization of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement, which can facilitate the flow of green goods and services.
Leaders placed special emphasis on green industrialization, particularly in energy-intensive industries. By prioritizing renewable energy deployment and adding value to Africa’s abundant natural resources, they aim to create a virtuous cycle that supports economic growth and reduces carbon emissions.
In their commitment to global sustainability, the leaders expressed their intention to develop global standards, metrics, and market mechanisms for valuing and compensating for the protection of nature, biodiversity, socio-economic co-benefits, and the provision of climate services.
The leaders include host President William Ruto, Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Salva Kiir (South Sudan), Paul Kagame (Rwanda) Nana Akuffo Addo (Ghana) and Evariste Ndayishimite (Burundi).
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