Nairobi Prepares to Host Africa Climate Summit 2023: Non-State Actors Call for Inclusive Solutions

Nairobi, Kenya; August 21, 2023 – As the special Africa Climate Summit approaches, the African Non-State Actors are taking a strong stand to ensure that the continent’s voice and aspirations are not overlooked in the global discussions on climate change. Organized by The Africa Climate Summit – Non-State Actors Steering Committee, these actors have set forth clear demands and redlines to address the pressing climate crisis facing the continent.

Amidst the growing concerns over the inadequate response of developed nations to address the adverse impacts of climate change, the continent is stepping up to demand a fair representation in shaping climate solutions. The summit, scheduled to convene in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 3 to 6, arrives at a time when the world continues to grapple with the dire consequences of climate change, which have been primarily driven by the developed world.

At the heart of the concerns expressed by the African Non-State Actors is the perception that the solutions presented so far have largely been dictated by external forces, often neglecting the vast potential of the continent to contribute innovative approaches. Dr. Mithika, the Executive Director of Pan African Climate Justice Alliance, emphasized, “With the absence of effective solutions from global leaders, we insist that all deliberations and decisions at the African Climate Summit uphold the human rights of all, especially those who bear the brunt of climate change, such as indigenous people, women, children, persons with disabilities, and impoverished communities.”

The call for inclusivity in solutions is echoed by Waituru Mwangi representing VSO/Kenya, who highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on Africa’s vulnerable populations. Mwangi emphasizes the necessity of involving non-state actors from across the continent and prioritizing climate justice, the rights of children, women, farmers, and marginalized groups. The focus, he asserts, must be on concrete solutions rather than corporate interests.

Criticism has emerged from various quarters, pointing to a lack of adequate representation in the planning process of the Africa Climate Summit. Indigenous communities, in particular, feel sidelined despite being among the most affected by climate change. Eunice of MPIDO, a Kenya-based indigenous organization, asserts, “We must not be excluded; we understand our challenges better than anyone. The Government of Kenya must include us in the process.” This sentiment is coupled with a plea to African leaders to resist proposals that exacerbate climate risks and burdens already shouldered by the continent.

The Africa Climate Summit aims to address critical issues of green growth, climate finance, and sustainable development. However, the direction of climate finance remains unclear, prompting Dr. Lesmore Ezekiel, the Director of Programmes at the Africa Conference of Churches, to question the emphasis on carbon markets at the expense of urgent matters such as loss and damage, and adaptation funds. Dr. Ezekiel emphasizes that climate change is a matter of life and death, urging African leaders to prioritize these crucial topics.

The Republic of Kenya, as the host of the summit, holds a significant responsibility in facilitating discussions and driving meaningful outcomes. The summit is further supported by the African Ministerial Conference on Environment (AMCEN) and the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN), working to advance Africa’s stance on climate change globally.

The Africa Climate Summit – Non-State Actors Steering Committee (ACS-NSA), representing diverse groups including regional CSOs, indigenous people, faith actors, trade unions, private sector entities, farmer organizations, women and gender constituencies, academia, research institutions, and conservation organizations, remains committed to championing an Africa-centric approach to climate action.

As the summit approaches, Africa’s collective determination to reshape climate discussions and drive effective solutions stands as a testament to the continent’s resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to securing a sustainable future for all.