by Kelvin Njai
As COP29 kicks off in Azerbaijan starting on the 11th of Nov, it’s palatable to wonder what it’s about. The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the annual United Nations climate change summit where global leaders, scientists, policy experts, and advocates gather to address climate change. This year, COP29 offers a unique platform to amplify voices calling for climate justice, particularly for nations most affected by climate change yet least responsible. For Africa, these outcomes will directly impact national policies, youth livelihoods, economic opportunities, and environmental resilience.
Understanding COP29: Who Attends, and Why it Matters
COP29 is part of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and brings together representatives from nearly 200 countries, including heads of state and youth leaders. With rising climate-related disasters in Africa, such as floods in Nigeria and droughts in Kenya, COP29 provides a crucial platform for African leaders to influence the international climate agenda. The decisions made at this conference can lead to increased funding for adaptation projects, stricter regulations, and support for sustainable development, all of which are essential for the continent’s future.
Expected Outcomes of COP29 and Their Significance
Setting a New Global Climate Finance Target
One of the most anticipated outcomes at COP29 is establishing a new climate finance target, a critical move given that many countries, especially in the Global South, lack resources to mitigate or adapt to climate impacts. Previously, developed nations promised $100 billion annually to help less developed countries manage climate change impacts, but this target remains unmet. Setting a new target is crucial for African nations, where climate finance will be essential for adaptation and mitigation projects that can benefit young people through job creation in green energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors.
Operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund
The event will be pivotal in operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund, specifically designed to support countries already facing severe climate-induced loss and damage. In Africa, where nations have contributed the least to global emissions yet suffer disproportionately, this fund could provide much-needed financial support for communities ravaged by climate events. For African youth, particularly in rural areas, this could mean fewer interruptions in education, better health outcomes, and increased opportunities as communities recover and rebuild with resilience.
Driving Adaptation Action from Planning to Implementation
COP29 emphasizes a proactive approach to adaptation, transitioning from planning to implementing concrete projects, which is essential for African nations striving for resilience and sustainability. Executing these adaptation plans offers significant advantages for local communities, primarily through initiatives in sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and environmentally responsible urban development. Moreover, this strategic shift will benefit youth by generating job opportunities and fostering community stability.
Emphasizing Climate-Nature-Land-City Linkages
COP29 will explore the vital connections between climate, nature, land, and urban development, focusing on how they can be managed to reduce climate risks. Integrating climate action with urban planning and sustainable land use can foster resilient cities where young people thrive alongside nature. An example is the Kenyan initiative on “green cities,” addressing pollution while generating economic opportunities, an approach that could improve the quality of life of future generations.
Other key expectations will be setting expectations for future national climate plans, which aim to work on the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
What’s Next for Youth in Africa?
As COP29 unfolds, African youth must amplify their voices, advocate for their rights, and demand accountability. Whether through climate activism, engaging local governments, or joining international platforms, youth involvement will be vital in turning the conference outcomes into reality on the continent. Additionally, with Africa’s growing population and expanding economies, young people must lead the push for sustainable practices that protect the environment while fostering economic growth.