Africa seeks predictable climate finance ahead of COP31

Africa is urging developed nations to provide reliable and sufficient climate finance to assist in combating climate change, as it prepares for COP31. The continent is also advocating for stronger adaptation measures, assistance for nations shifting to cleaner energy sources, and support for communities affected by climate change.

Nana Dr. Antwi-Boasiako Amoah, the Chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), outlined these priorities during a presentation to the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC). He emphasized that Africa continues to endure severe climate impacts, such as droughts, floods, food shortages, displacement, and energy crises, while also bearing a disproportionate share of the human and economic consequences of climate-related loss and damage.

The update highlighted a 38% decrease in funding to the Global Environment Facility compared to previous funding cycles, as well as a 50% reduction in pledges from developed countries to the Green Climate Fund. The AGN noted that current national climate plans are inadequate to limit global warming to the targets set by the Paris Agreement, with an estimated 2.7 degrees Celsius of warming currently projected.

Regarding adaptation, progress has stalled during climate negotiations, and the AGN emphasized the need for a renewed focus on Africa's adaptation requirements. The group also sought resolution to outstanding issues concerning the Adaptation Fund and called for developed countries to fulfill their financial obligations to developing nations.

In addition to these demands, the AGN called for a comprehensive support system for workers and communities affected by the transition to cleaner energy sources. They also pushed for stronger implementation of agreements reached at previous climate conferences. The presentation advocated treating COP31, COP32, and COP33 as an ongoing process, with each conference building upon the previous one.

The AGN urged for support in empowering Ethiopia's Presidency to convert COP31 outcomes into tangible actions. The group stressed the importance of Africa having a unified position that amplifies its voice in global climate discussions while integrating climate action with development, energy access, adaptation, industrialization, and economic growth.