Catalyzing Momentum for Health Negotiations at COP28

The Africa Climate Summit 2023 witnessed a pivotal event: the Health Ministerial Meeting, held under the theme “Catalyzing Momentum for Institutionalizing Health Negotiation within UNFCCC at COP28.” This gathering brought together influential leaders at the crossroads of climate change and public health, magnifying the urgency of addressing the intricate interplay between these two paramount global concerns.

In an era where the far-reaching consequences of climate change ripple across the globe, the nexus between climate action and public health has never been more pivotal. The Health Ministerial Meeting stood as a testament to the gravity of this intersection, uniting thought leaders, policymakers, and advocates in a shared commitment to bridge the gap between climate change and its profound impact on public health.

Key stakeholders delivered strong messages during this meeting, each echoing the urgency and significance of their mission:

Charles Mwangi, Head of Program at PACJA, highlighted a sobering reality, stating, “Africa’s expenditure on adaptation significantly surpasses its investment in health, implying that we are essentially funding adaptation at the expense of our healthcare systems.” Mwangi’s words illuminated the need to strike a balance between resources allocated to climate adaptation and those dedicated to healthcare, ensuring the well-being of African populations.

H.E. Dr Adnan Amin, Chief Executive Officer of COP28 Presidency, emphasized the pivotal role of the meeting, noting, “At COP28, your contribution on the intersection of climate and health will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of climate negotiations. Achieving this hinges on effective coordination, collaboration, and delivering clear and impactful messages.” Her message underscored the imperative of clear communication and collaborative efforts in advancing climate and health agendas.

The COP28 Executive Secretary also emphasized, “COP28 will elevate the climate health discussion to the highest level with active MOH engagement. This entails a concerted effort to grasp the financial landscape, mobilize resources effectively, and define a robust policy framework to drive progress.”

The African Group of Negotiators (AGN) outlined key themes for COP28, stating, “At COP28, AGN’s key themes will revolve around: Adaptation, Loss & Damage, Climate Financing.” They also emphasized the importance of clear messaging and consensus-building in these discussions, highlighting the need for a unified approach to address climate change’s impact on health.

As the world prepares for COP28, where pivotal climate decisions will be made, the Africa Climate Summit 2023’s Health Ministerial Meeting set the stage by addressing the urgent need to mainstream health within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This mission, encapsulated by the theme of institutionalizing health negotiation, represents a profound shift in the way we approach climate challenges.