President Kagame highlights how Africa can strengthen itself to tackle climate change

President Paul Kagame emphasized that African countries must intensify efforts to secure consistent support to address the impacts of climate change, stressing that while Africa has the resolve to offer effective solutions, it remains underserved in terms of needed investments.

He conveyed this message during an international summit on Africa’s climate-focused economic growth, held in Azerbaijan on November 13, 2024.

The summit, led by President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo and Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, aimed to reinforce Africa’s commitment to combating climate change.

President Kagame stated that Africa must have a strong voice in climate change discussions, as highlighted at COP29, held in Dubai.

He pointed out that while Africa’s contribution to global pollution is minimal, it suffers disproportionately from its effects.

"Africa has a limited role in polluting the planet, yet it bears the brunt of the consequences. Often, commitments made in past summits have not been fulfilled, leaving us with the challenge of insufficient follow-through," He noted

In his address, President Kagame requested a more equitable distribution of climate funds compared to previous years so that each country has the resources to meet its set goals.

He stressed that investing in climate-related projects is not merely a charitable act but is beneficial to all nations.

"We’re not asking for much. It’s about understanding that each country deserves to be supported, because when one country is left behind, its impacts come back to affect all of us," President Kagame said.

Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Climate Change Secretariat, underscored that investment must reach all nations, urging leaders to work together to shield the entire world from the consequences of climate change.