COP28: PACJA Advocates for Collective Action to Address Climate Change Impacts on Health

Projections from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate a potential increase of 250,000 additional annual deaths by 2030 and 2050 due to climate-related factors. Given the current trajectory of adverse climate effects, the attainment of the 2030 sustainable development agenda and the 2063 Africa Agenda appears increasingly improbable.

On December 3rd, on the sidelines of COP28, PACJA, in collaboration with partners, convened a dialogue to amplify the African common position on climate and health. This side event coincided with the first day of health organized by COP28 UAE Presidency, in collaboration with WHO, AMREF, AFIDEP the Wellcome Trust, and other partners.

The day centered on presenting evidence-based and clear impact pathways between climate change and human health, promoting “health arguments for climate action,” and underscoring the health co-benefits of mitigation. The discussions also highlighted the needs, barriers, and best practices for enhancing the climate resilience of health systems. Additionally, the event identified and advocated for the scaling of adaptation measures to address the impacts of climate change on human health, including through the One Health approach, and called for action at the nexus of health and relief, recovery, and peace.

For the first time at COP28, the theme of the discussion focused on the effect of climate change on health, acknowledging its universal impact while disproportionately burdening marginalized populations, including women, girls, indigenous communities, individuals in crisis, displaced persons, and those with limited incomes.

This side event played a pivotal role in amplifying the African Common Position on Climate Change and Health developed and adopted at the initial conference on Climate Change and Health held in Lilongwe, Malawi, in August 2023. The workshop culminated in the establishment and endorsement of a unified standpoint.

Addressing participants, Dr. Mithika Mwenda underscored the reality that climate change impacts have imposed additional challenges to health in various aspects. He emphasized the necessity for partnerships, urged the breaking down of silos, and advocated for building momentum beyond the conference. Collaboration between the Ministries of Environment and Health, unlocking resources, and prioritizing adaptation and adaptation finance in Africa were also highlighted.

The side event aimed to disseminate the African common position on Climate and Health, fostering greater understanding among key stakeholders. It sought to explore and elevate the health conversation in the context of mitigation, adaptation, and climate financing frameworks, emphasizing a holistic approach that encompasses human, animal, and environmental health. The event proposed the development of early warning systems, research initiatives, and the adoption of nature-based solutions to restore ecosystems.

Natasha Museba, an AGN representative, stressed the intersectionality of health and climate, emphasizing the importance of investing in both areas. While speaking on how the Africa Group of Negotiators (AGN) is shaping the climate and health discourse, Natasha advocated for concrete actions, including financing mechanisms, to address the challenges posed by climate change on health.

Dr. Gitahi Githinji, the Executive Director of Amref Health Africa, highlighted the critical role of finance in both mitigation and adaptation efforts. He emphasized that the Common Africa Position underscored the centrality of communities in negotiations and called for the protection of loss and damage funds.