The African Union (AU) Commission has called for a scaled-up and predictable finance to help African countries build climate-resilient economies and advance adaptation and mitigation actions as the world prepares to mark the 31st Climate Change Conference (COP 31) next week in Antalya, Türkiye.
In a message he shared on X over the weekend, AU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE) Moses Vilakati said climate change is affecting lives, livelihoods and economic growth across the continent.
“We call all accelerated investment in multi-hazard early warning systems and early action. This is particularly urgent as the continent prepares for the anticipated 2026-2027 El Nino event, which may have significant implications for food systems, for water resources, infrastructure and vulnerable communities,” Vilakati said.
He said Africa contributes the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, yet the continent continues to bear the most disproportionate share of climate impacts, ranging from recurrent droughts and devastating floods, to growing food insecurity, water stress and ecosystem degradation.
“As Africa, we come to COP 31 united and guided by Agenda 2063, our blueprint for the Africa that we want. We remain committed to ensuring that climate action supports Africa’s aspirations for prosperity, for resilience, sustainable industrialization, and improved livelihoods for all. Our priorities are very clear,” he said.
According to the commissioner, adaptation must receive equal attention and investment as mitigation as member states need stronger support for climate resilient agriculture, for water resource management, disaster risk reduction and climate information services that protect lives and livelihoods.
He emphasised the need for strengthening climate services, forecasting capacities, managing Africa’s natural capital and preparedness measures.
‘The Congo Basin, the Great Green Wall Initiative, Africa’s forests, seas, oceans, and ecosystems are critical global assets that support climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, water security and economic resilience,” he added.
He said Africa seeks a just, equitable and inclusive energy transition that expands energy access that supports industrialization, creates decent jobs and drives sustainable economic transformation.
He said COP31 must be a COP of implementation, a COP of solidarity, as well as delivery. The commitments already made must be translated into tangible action and measurable outcomes for vulnerable communities.
He said the union expects COP31 to lay a strong foundation for further progress on climate finance, for adaptation, loss and damage, and support for developing countries.
MG/as/APA