President William Ruto of Kenya has stated that if no other African country is willing, Kenya will host the second African Climate Summit. This proposal follows the inaugural summit that focused on climate adaptation strategies and aimed to strengthen collaboration among African nations.
President William Ruto has proposed that Kenya could host the upcoming second bi-annual African Climate Summit if no other African country steps forward to take on the responsibility. This offer was made during the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change meeting at the AU summit held in Addis Ababa. Ruto emphasized that Kenya is ready to take this initiative if needed.
Ruto highlighted that the year 2025 poses both challenges and opportunities for Africa’s Climate Action Agenda and mentioned key areas essential for the forthcoming African Climate Summit. He stated, “Following the AU’s decision for a bi-annual summit, Africa Climate Action will provide a critical platform to access progress and lessons, and strengthen collaboration.”
The inaugural African Climate Summit took place in Kenya in September 2023, focusing on “Adapting to Climate Change: A Call for Action.” It aimed to develop strategies for mitigating climate change impacts prior to the upcoming 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai and garnered participation from various stakeholders, including over 17 heads of state and government.
Supported by the African Union, the summit also had backing from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Kenyan government. It was part of ongoing events following COP27 in Egypt. The summit occurred on September 4 and 5, 2023, with Antonio Guterres, the African Union Secretary-General, in attendance as well.
The former Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Abel Mutua emphasized that the summit would be instrumental in urging African nations to implement the African Leaders Nairobi Declaration. This declaration aims to renew commitments for Africa and foster global partnerships. Consequently, Guterres has invited President Ruto to present the outcomes of the African Climate Summit at the high-level Climate Ambition Summit in New York on September 20, 2024.
President Ruto has offered Kenya as a host for the second African Climate Summit if no other country accepts the role. This initiative highlights Kenya’s commitment to climate action as the continent prepares for future challenges. The inaugural summit set the stage for cooperation and strategic planning in combating climate change in Africa.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
