As the United Nations kicks off COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, stakeholders from around the world converge for what many are calling the “FINANCE COP.” This session aims to address escalating climate challenges and to make headway on essential climate agreements.
The UN’s Executive Secretary for Climate Change, Simon Stiell, explains COP29’s importance: “We have the solutions to tackle the climate crisis. The decision made at COP28 laid the foundation; now is the time to get with it. We need to accelerate the transition to renewable energy to phase out fossil fuels quickly but also fairly. The transition must leave no one behind.”
For African nations, COP29 presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Leaders from the continent are advocating for substantial increases in climate financing, access to sustainable technology, and a reinforced global commitment to loss and damage compensation. African leaders such as Kenya’s President William Ruto and South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa have been vocal about Africa’s unique needs, stressing the necessity of equitable financing models that empower sustainable development without placing undue burdens on the continent.
In previous UN forums, African representatives have persistently highlighted the urgent need for dedicated funding to help the continent adapt to climate impacts predominantly driven by industrialised nations’ emissions. During the UN General Assembly and COP28, African leaders called for the operationalisation of the loss and damage fund, a mechanism designed to support countries severely impacted by climate-related disasters. The African Group of Negotiators (AGN) has warned that, without adequate support, climate impacts could cost African economies an estimated $50 billion annually by 2050.
Understanding Global Climate Change: Key Standard and Attendees Expected at COP29
Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily driven by human activities like the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas, has led to rising sea levels, unpredictable seasons, and the urgent need for communities to bolster resilience.
At COP29, discussions will likely focus on core standards for carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, targeting transparent carbon offsets and cooperative approaches between nations. This is especially pertinent for African countries seeking fair and transparent carbon markets. Delegates from governments, NGOs, financial institutions, and the private sector are anticipated, with African representatives focusing on encouraging developed nations to back these standards with robust climate finance packages. Key attendees will include climate ministers from across Africa, AGN representatives, and UN delegates, all aiming to highlight Africa’s unique climate challenges.
Africa’s COP29 Demands and Expectations
Africa’s low carbon footprint contrasts sharply with its high climate vulnerability, a disparity central to the continent’s COP29 agenda. Building on demands at the UN General Assembly, African leaders are seeking firm commitments on climate finance, especially for adaptation, technology transfer, and just transition initiatives. Figures such as Kenya’s Environment Minister have emphasised the need for approximately $50 billion annually to address Africa’s climate adaptation requirements.
A primary area of focus is the loss and damage fund, an issue gaining momentum since COP28 but requiring urgent implementation. Africa is particularly susceptible to climate disasters, and recent floods, droughts, and heatwaves underscore funding necessity. Another priority is a just transition framework that accommodates Africa’s distinct economic and social contexts, promoting sustainable energy solutions and capacity building without compromising growth.
Global Stocktake and the Road to 2030
COP29 will also address the Global Stocktake, evaluating progress on climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. African negotiators advocate for increased support to implement their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), pointing to continued funding shortfalls. The AGN has flagged challenges such as the inconsistent flow of climate finance, the high costs of emerging technologies, and obstacles in accessing climate funds from developed countries, all of which hinder the continent’s climate goals.
Health and Climate Resilience
Health is emerging as a pivotal theme, with African leaders pushing to integrate climate resilience into health systems to mitigate climate-related health crises. The impacts of climate change on health—ranging from respiratory issues due to dust storms to an increase in vector-borne diseases—calls for stronger climate-resilient healthcare infrastructure.
As COP29 unfolds, Africa’s voice will be stronger than ever, advocating for its urgent needs and a fair global approach to climate action. Through discussions on carbon markets, climate finance, and just transitions, African negotiators will challenge developed nations to bridge the funding and technology gaps hindering the continent’s progress towards a sustainable, resilient future.
