The need for African nations to unite themselves in the fight against climate change has once again been brought to fore by Kenya’s president on Monday.
William Ruto cited climate change’s disproportionate impact on Africa as the main reason why there must be a collective effort against it when he spoke at a symposium in the capital Nairobi
Ruto bemoaned how the effects of climate change have already had a significant impact on the continent, especially how it has caused food insecurity, water scarcity, and the displacement of communities.
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“Africa must undertake concerted action to win the war on climate change. This is because the continent is disproportionately affected by its adverse impacts,” Ruto said.
He added that although climate change is a universal existential threat, “there is good reason for Africa’s institutions and leadership to drive the agenda of mitigating its effects.”
He therefore called on African governments to pool their resources and work together to build resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.
Ruto’s call to action comes at a time that many African countries continue to grapple with the impact of climate change, with rising temperatures, droughts, and other extreme weather events posing a significant threat to communities and ecosystems.
Attendees at the symposium said the need for cross-border collaboration and joint action has become increasingly urgent as the continent continues to work to address these challenges.
The symposium brought together more than 26 chief justices from African countries, judges, legal experts, policymakers, and other stakeholders to discuss the role of the judiciary in promoting environmental sustainability and combating climate change.
Story was adapted from AA.