African Climate Reality Project Advocates for Climate Justice and Equity at COP28 in Dubai

As world leaders and decision-makers gather in Dubai for the 28th United Nations Conference (COP28), The African Climate Reality Project (ACRP), calls for ambitious commitments to the equitable phase out of fossil fuels, fair financing, and adaptation to be placed higher on the agenda.

As Africans, we call for the capitalisation of the Loss & Damage fund. Some regions on the continent are already experiencing the impacts of the climate crisis, and are owed a historical debt. We recognise that discussions are ongoing regarding operationalising the fund, however we are concerned about the governance, independence and effectiveness of the progress. We maintain that it must operate transparently, with easily accessible accountability mechanisms. The fund must ensure that those most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change are able to access financing for Loss & Damage events, in a timely manner.

In addition to this, we want the following to be prioritised:

Reducing Emissions:

At COP28 we want to see an agreement to equitably phase out all fossil fuels. ACRP emphasises the need to triple renewable energy capacity, double progress on energy efficiency, and phase out fossil fuels equitably. We reject the dash for gas in Africa, highlighting its neocolonial practices. The reduction of emissions must be done equitably, through a phase out, and a just transition that leaves no worker or community behind.

Increase Climate Finance

There is an urgency to increase climate finance substantially and deliver on prior commitments of $100 billion per year to ensure developing countries have the funding to create thriving clean energy economies and address climate impacts. At ACRP we recognise that there is a knowledge gap when it comes to climate finance, and believe it is important to bridge that gap and equip communities and the public with the tools to understand it and effectively participate in finance consultations.

Reforming Future COP Processes:

COP processes must be fair and equitable, with no room for fossil fuel interests to block progress towards meeting the Paris Agreement goals. It is a blatant conflict of interest that this year’s COP president, Sultan al-Jaber, is the head of the national oil company. ACRP demands a more transparent agenda-setting process that involves parties and climate experts.

We look forward to engaging with our Climate Leaders and other Civil Society Organisations and stakeholders as we work towards a just and sustainable future for generations to come, in order to build #TheAfricaWeWant.