Wednesday, 17th May 2023 – Nairobi, Kenya: President Ruto delivered a compelling Key Note Address on the second day of the 3rd Pan-African Parliament Summit on Climate Policy and Equity. The summit, held under the theme, “The Continent at the Crossroads; Graceful just transition and NDCs implementation responsive to African development aspirations and economic realities,” aims to rally support for climate action that addresses the needs of Africa’s most vulnerable populations while considering economic growth.
President Ruto’s speech centered on the urgent need for a pro-poor, just, and science-based approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The summit, he stressed, serves as a platform to mobilize a critical mass of stakeholders who can champion decisions that are both locally-led and equitable.
Addressing an audience of global leaders, climate activists, policymakers, and parliamentarians from across the continent, President Ruto emphasized the importance of incorporating the aspirations and economic realities of African nations into the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). He noted that while Africa is responsible for only a fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, it bears the brunt of climate impacts, exacerbating poverty, inequality, and food insecurity.
The President called for a “graceful just transition” that recognizes the unique circumstances and developmental challenges faced by African countries. He stressed the need to balance environmental stewardship with sustainable economic growth, ensuring that climate policies do not inadvertently harm the most vulnerable communities.
President Ruto outlined a comprehensive strategy that focused on empowering local communities and leveraging science-based solutions. He emphasized the importance of supporting renewable energy initiatives, enhancing climate resilience in agriculture, promoting sustainable urbanization, and investing in green technologies. The President highlighted the need for increased financial support, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives to enable African countries to effectively implement their NDCs.
Furthermore, President Ruto urged African governments to strengthen their collaboration and present a united front at international climate negotiations. He called on developed nations to fulfill their commitment to climate finance and support the continent in its transition towards a sustainable future.
The Pan-African Parliament Summit on Climate Policy and Equity has garnered significant attention, drawing participation from various stakeholders who are committed to addressing climate change in a manner that places equity and justice at the forefront. The summit seeks to foster a broad consensus on pro-poor and locally-led climate action, empowering African nations to shape their future while contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
As the summit continues, delegates are engaging in panel discussions, workshops, and negotiations to develop actionable plans and initiatives. The ultimate goal is to build a resilient and sustainable Africa, where the impacts of climate change are minimized, and economic opportunities are maximized for all its people.
President Ruto’s address serves as a clarion call for leaders, policymakers, and civil society to come together and work towards a climate-resilient future, where the aspirations and needs of all Africans are taken into account. The success of this summit lies not only in the commitments made but also in the collective actions that will follow, ensuring that climate policies and NDC implementation prioritize the well-being and prosperity of the continent’s most vulnerable communities.
