At COP29, Claver Gatete of the ECA urged global leaders for urgent climate action, stating that the costs of inaction are far greater than investment needs. He detailed a five-step strategy for Africa to overcome climate vulnerabilities and become a leader in green growth, stressing the urgency due to Africa’s ongoing economic losses linked to climate impacts.
During COP29, Claver Gatete, the Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), emphasized the critical need for urgent climate action in Africa, highlighting that the costs of inaction significantly outweigh the investments necessary for a sustainable future. Gatete pointed out that despite being minimally responsible for global emissions, Africa suffers immensely from climate change, with economies losing an estimated 5% of their GDP annually due to climate disruptions. He proposed a five-step strategy to transition Africa from climate vulnerability to global leadership in sustainable development, advocating for the exploitation of the continent’s rich mineral resources, enhanced carbon capture through nature-based solutions, robust climate finance goals, a rapid clean energy transition, and global commitment to emission reduction. Africa is already experiencing severe effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, droughts, and erratic weather patterns, which jeopardize food security and healthcare systems while driving millions into poverty each year. Mr. Gatete’s solution involves utilizing Africa’s abundant critical minerals, like cobalt and lithium, to not only support the continent’s own development but also to lead the global clean energy movement. He cited the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia’s collaboration as an example of how Africa can leverage its resources for economic transition.
The urgency of climate action has become a pressing topic as world leaders convene to tackle the escalating impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable regions like Africa. The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has been vocal about the unique challenges faced by the continent, which, despite contributing a minimal share to global greenhouse gas emissions, bears the brunt of climate-related disasters. The ECA’s call for transformative strategies is vital for shifting the narrative from vulnerability to proactive leadership in green initiatives.
In conclusion, the call for urgent climate action led by Claver Gatete underscores a pivotal moment for Africa and the global community. The proposed framework aims to navigate around existing vulnerabilities by leveraging natural resources, enhancing climate finance, and fostering international cooperation. Without immediate and comprehensive action, the consequences will be severe, not only for Africa but for the global community at large, emphasizing the moral obligation and shared responsibility to address climate change effectively.
Original Source: www.uneca.org
