By Friday Phiri
The African Group of Negotiators (AGN) has pledged full support to ensure a positive outcome for Africa at COP27 slated for next week in Sham El Sheikh, Egypt.
Speaking when the group met the COP27 Presidency and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Executive Secqretary, AGN Chair Ephraim Mwepya Shitima said the AGN was solidly behind the COP Presidency to deliver on a successful COP of implementation, dubbed the ‘African COP.’
Mr. Shitima outlined the five priorities for Africa which include; recognition of Africa’s special needs and special circumstances; transformative agenda for adaptation; enhanced financing for loss and damage and the coordination of the funding to be led by the UNFCCC; delivering on robust financing for climate action; and the need for a just transition to low emissions and resilient climate development pathways in the context of sustainable development and eradicating poverty.
“The IPCC Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) has daunting findings, in particular on the African continent,” said Shitima. “It found that Africa will be impacted more than any other continent. While the continent only contributes less than 4% of the world’s total emissions. AR6 also estimates that adaptation costs in developing countries will reach $127 billion, and Africa needs up to $86.5 billion annually by 2030. Based on these scientific findings, decisions reached should recognise the Special needs and circumstances of Africa,” he added.
And COP27 Presidency Representative, Ambassador Mohamed Nasri assured the AGN that Egypt would ensure that COP27 outcomes reflect the aspirations of all parties taking into account the special needs and circumstances of Africa.
Meanwhile, Simon Stiell, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, said the Secretariat remains resolved to provide the needed support for a successful outcome at COP27.
