Experts from across Africa are gathering in Nairobi to form a unified stance ahead of COP29, which will take place in November. The meeting is organized by the Africa Group of Negotiators Expert Support, in collaboration with the Kenyan government, Africa Union Development Agency, and the International Livestock Research Institute.
Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’, who leads the climate change caucus in the Senate, emphasized that Kenya and the wider African continent are well-prepared for the upcoming climate discussions. He highlighted Africa’s focus on restructuring the global financial system concerning climate finance. Kajwang’ stressed that while commitments have been made by the West, particularly in relation to funds such as the Green Climate Fund and adaptation funding, there has been a lack of follow-through.
As COP29 approaches, Africa intends to apply more pressure on major polluting nations to fulfill their funding promises for adaptation efforts. Kajwang’ also pointed out that many security challenges in Africa, including conflicts over resources like pasture and water, are linked to climate change, particularly in regions such as Kenya’s northern frontier and the Sahel.
Jacqueline Amongin, Uganda MP and Secretary General of the African Network of Parliamentarians on Climate Change, emphasized the importance of Africa presenting a united front at COP29, despite individual countries being party members. With Africa contributing less than four percent of global emissions but facing significant climate impacts, Amongin stressed the need for more resources to flow to the continent to support affected communities.
Dr. George Wamukoya, head of the Africa Group of Negotiators Expert Support team, said the Nairobi meeting will boost climate innovation capacity to strengthen resilience in communities and enhance negotiators’ awareness of transboundary climate risks. The meeting will also refine Africa’s position for the November climate talks, focusing on climate finance and adaptation strategies.
