Why COP29 is the key to Africa's climate future: Failure is not an option

The COP29 summit, due to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, promises to be a defining moment for global climate action, with the fate of Africa hanging in the balance. This continent accounts for only 3-4% of global carbon emissions, but it is one of the most vulnerable to climate change. From devastating droughts to catastrophic floods, climate disasters are outpacing Africa's ability to respond. At COP29, the international community must come together to create a new financial framework that will provide Africa with the resources it needs to survive and thrive in a warming world.

Why are Africa's stakes so high?

Africa's climate challenges are enormous. Last year, Somalia faced its worst flooding in a century, leaving more than a million people homeless. As the climate crisis worsens, such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe. For African nations, adaptation is no longer a choice—it is a necessity for survival. However, despite being at the forefront of the fight against climate change, Africa has historically lacked funding for global climate initiatives. COP29 provides an opportunity to change that.

A call for a new climate finance target

One of the main goals of COP29 is to establish a new Collective Quantitative Goal (NCQG) for climate finance, replacing the outdated $100 billion target set in 2009. For Africa alone, meeting climate goals will require an estimated $5.8 trillion by 2030. Developed Countries most responsible for historical carbon emissions should step up to mobilize these funds.

This new financial framework must focus not only on mitigation and adaptation, but also on addressing the losses and damage already being felt in Africa. Importantly, funding should come in the form of grants or highly concessional loans, avoiding the debt traps that have plagued African nations in the past.

The role of carbon trading and global cooperation

COP29 is also an opportunity to implement Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which focuses on carbon trading. If properly structured, carbon trading can provide African countries with new sources of income, allowing them to invest in sustainable development while contributing to global emissions reductions.

However, many things remain unresolved. The success of carbon trading mechanisms depends on clear rules and guarantees to prevent exploitation. Africa must ensure that any carbon trading agreements are in the national interest and directly benefit local communities.

A united Africa can change the balance

To make the most of COP29, Africa must present a united front. The African Group of Negotiators (AGN) plays a key role in shaping the continent's climate agenda. Through cross-border coordination and advocacy for common goals, African countries can maximize their influence in global climate negotiations.

As Kamo Sende, a climate researcher, points out: “Africa's low emissions compared to its high climate vulnerability require an individual approach. Climate finance must prioritize not only adaptation, but also the long-term sustainability of Africa's food systems and economies.”

Why COP29 is a crucial turning point

For Africa, the success of COP29 is not an aspiration – it is an urgent necessity. Without significant financial support, the continent will struggle to adapt to the escalating climate crisis. The world cannot afford COP29 to be a missed opportunity. Africa and the global community need clear commitments, transparent governance and bold action to ensure a climate-resilient future.

Conclusion: It's time to act

As the world gathers in Baku for COP29, the message is clear: failure is not an option. With the right financial support and international cooperation, Africa can not only survive the climate crisis, but also pave the way for a sustainable, low-carbon future. Now is the time to act, and the stakes have never been higher.