COP28: Africa’s special needs and circumstances must be kept in focus, says AGN Chair

The African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN) expects climate stakeholders to keep in focus Africa’s special circumstances and needs as they prepare for the 28th session of United Nations Climate Conference (COP28) scheduled for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, later in November this year.

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AGN Chair, Ephraim Mwepya Shitima, says African stakeholders should not lose focus of the key principle of equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capacities (CBDR-RC).

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CBDR–RC acknowledges the different capabilities and differing responsibilities of individual countries in addressing climate change.

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“The equity principle is very important as it takes into consideration and safeguards our interests and unique circumstances as a continent that contributes just about four percent to global emissions and yet suffers the most,” said Shitima, in a speech read for him by AGN Communication Specialist, Friday Phiri.

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He was speaking at the official opening of a Pre-COP28 Strategy Meeting organised by the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) in Nairobi, Kenya. Delegates from over 31 African countries who are attending the meeting.

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As the global conversation on the just transition gains momentum, Africa has repeatedly noted the importance for the continent to be accorded policy space required to develop and means of implementation support to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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The argument is that the just transition work programme must recognise and provide policy space and support in consideration of the continent's unique needs and development circumstances to ensure a fair and equitable shift to low-carbon and climate resilient development pathways.

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“Our message for COP28 has also been very clear; that it should deliver ambitious, balanced, fair and just outcomes that should set the world on course to effectively address climate change on several fronts, including adaptation, loss and damage, finance and mitigation,” noted Shitima.

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Earlier, AGNES Team Leader, George Wamukoya highlighted the need for continuous engagements and consultations between scientists and negotiators to ensure that Africa’s positions are watertight.

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“As AGNES, we believe these interactions between scientists and negotiators are key in ensuring that our positions are framed to succeed as they enable negotiators to effectively engage their counterparts with facts and ensure that Africa’s voice is not just heard, but also respected and create the impact we all desire,” said Dr. Wamukoya.

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Kenya’s Principal Secretary at the State Department of Environment and Climate Change, Eng. Festus Ng’eno welcomed the addition in the discussions, other important themes such as climate change and health, climate, peace and security as well as biodiversity and water to support a wholesome understanding of the climate crisis and its associated impacts.

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“The impact on climate change to health as well as access to water for domestic, agricultural and industrial use is one area of growing concern. It is my hope that these great minds will deliberate on how to handle climate related health issues, including malnutrition, hunger, and water access issues that is a growing concern across the continent,” said Eng. Ng’eno.

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The Pre-COP28 Strategy Meeting has been convened to reflect on SB58 outcomes, update negotiators on emerging areas of interest and discuss approaches for COP28.

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“As you deliberate on the various themes during this crucial meeting, I urge you to keep in mind our special circumstances as Africa and the need for us to be allowed policy space and support to achieve sustainable development,” said the AGN Chair.

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The AGN says it remains open for engagement and resolute to support Africa’s climate and development cause.