The African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN) has reiterated its commitment to making sure that climate change adaptation stays a high priority for the continent.
Adapting to the effects of climate change continues to be one of the major challenges that Africa is facing, according to Zambia’s Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, John Msimuko, who was speaking at the first AGN Preparatory Meeting in Livingstone, which was held concurrently with the Young Climate Change Negotiators Training.
In his words, “Adaptation remains a key priority as people, infrastructure and ecosystems on the continent continue to experience climate shocks and economic distress.
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“The latest science by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has reported that Africa will need up to $86.5 billion for adaptation alone by 2030. Yet Africa only contributes approximately 4% to global Green House gas emissions.
“Therefore, let us continue pursuing Africa’s special needs and special circumstances even at this year’s COP28. There is a need for a transformative agenda on adaptation at COP28.”
On his part, AGN Chair, Ephraim Mwepya Shitima said “As AGN, we would like to see an outcome that is comprehensive and balanced to facilitate progress across all the thematic areas, and respect the priority issues of all Parties and stakeholders.”
He added that the inherent bias in favour of mitigation ought to be rectified while the needs of adaptation and recognition of adaptation actions as part of the contribution of Parties towards the global effort should be accorded sufficient attention.
Story was adapted from Enviro News
