MWE Correspondent
African leaders have issued a clear message at the Africa Climate Summit: the continent refuses to be seen as a victim of climate change and instead seeks to be recognized as a hub for climate investment.
Delegates urged transforming traditional climate aid into innovative, sustainable investment strategies that empower local economies while addressing environmental challenges.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted the urgent need for Africa to harness its natural resources and technological potential to adapt to climate impacts. “It is time to turn climate aid into climate investment,” he said, emphasizing that African countries should lead their own solutions rather than remain dependent on external funding.
Kenyan President William Ruto also addressed the summit, stressing that African nations contribute the least to global emissions but face some of the harshest climate impacts. He criticized wealthy nations for not meeting their pledged climate finance commitments, arguing that a new approach must prioritize investment opportunities over mere assistance.
Among the summit’s announcements, Ethiopia unveiled plans to expand renewable energy through the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which is expected to significantly boost national electricity production. The country also aims to plant 50 billion trees by 2026, signaling a long-term commitment to sustainability.
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The summit emphasized the urgent need for increased climate finance to close the gap between current funding and the $70 billion per year required for adaptation measures. Leaders proposed innovative financing mechanisms such as taxing major polluters and leveraging private-sector investment to support resilience projects across Africa.
Africa’s call to shift from aid to investment reflects a broader global trend where developing regions aim to lead in climate solutions. By positioning itself as a destination for green investment, Africa hopes to attract technology transfer, job creation, and sustainable infrastructure development. Experts note that successful implementation of these strategies could redefine Africa’s role in global climate discussions, turning vulnerability into opportunity.
The summit’s outcomes will feed into the upcoming COP30 conference in Brazil, where African leaders aim to influence international climate policy and secure equitable support for projects that drive both environmental protection and economic growth.
