In today’s interconnected world, the climate crisis is a pressing issue that transcends borders. Nowhere is this more evident than in Africa, where it poses a significant threat to both the continent’s progress and our shared sustainable future.
With COP28 on the horizon, we are presented with an imperative opportunity for international cooperation to combat climate change – an issue that directly impacts our shared dreams and pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The repercussions are far-reaching, exerting pressure on crucial sectors such as agriculture, water resources, public health, and political stability.
US-Africa climate collaboration is not merely necessary; it’s a path to shared prosperity and climate resilience. Africa alone requires over $3 trillion in investments by 2030 to fulfil its Paris Agreement Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). By offering technical knowledge, financial aid, and technology transfer, the United States (US) can bolster Africa’s capacity to combat climate challenges, fostering economic advantages including job creations, sustainable growth, and green investments for both continents.
Despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, the continent’s climate is warming more than the global average. Without this vital collaboration, these environmental challenges have the potential to trigger conflicts, displacement, and profound socio-economic impacts.
Renewable energy
Renewable energy is crucial for Africa’s sustainable, low-carbon future. While some countries – Cape Verde, Kenya, Malawi and Tanzania – aim for 100 per cent renewable electricity by 2050, Africa currently accounts for only 3 per cent of the world’s renewable capacity. Between 2000 and 2020, renewable investment in Africa grew remarkably, averaging 96 percent per year, outpacing the global rate of 7 percent. Despite this impressive growth, 75 per cent of this investment was concentrated in Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, and South Africa, the most sought-after tourist destinations on the continent
To support this transition, international assistance, particularly from the US, is vital. Private sector funding for power generation projects is readily available, but challenges persist in providing reliable grid access, along with state-owned power utilities struggling to secure sufficient funding.
Shifting the US’ aid funding focus towards strengthening and expanding power grids can effectively address the barriers to private sector initiatives, ensuring African states can develop their renewable energy systems.
Sustainable Agriculture
Changing weather patterns threaten agriculture, a cornerstone of many African economies. Farmers are facing challenges like higher temperatures, fluctuating rainfall, and variable yields without the resources for crop insurance or irrigation. To mitigate the impact of climate change, African countries need better planning and financial mobilisation to enable farmers to adapt.
The US has taken a significant stride by partnering with the African Union and the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation to establish the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) program. This initiative represents hope in the fight against the global food crisis, with the US committing a substantial $100 million in July. In a resounding declaration, US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken emphasised the program’s pivotal role during the recently held Global Solutions for Food Security event, calling upon others to join the US in this “real action against climate adaptation”.
The US with its distinctive convening power, possess the potential to bring to bring together all essential partners needed for initiatives like VACS, whereas other geopolitical actors lack the same level of commitment. The call from Blinken is clear: enhanced coordination and collective action across various levels are essential to fortify African agriculture, secure food and confront the disruptions in the global supply chain head-on.
Africa’s biodiversity
Soaring temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns and extreme weather events are contributing towards biodiversity loss, leading to habitat destruction and endangering over 6,400 animals and 3,100 plants in Africa.
Effective biodiversity protection and conservation face hurdles, including insufficient financial resources for implementing planned activities and programs, as well as the lack of human resources and capacity in biodiversity conservation. Collaboration with US prestigious universities, including historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), can provide not only the essential technical expertise and financial support vital for Africa’s capacity in biodiversity conservation, but also foster groundbreaking research, knowledge and cross-cultural engagement necessary to protect Africa’s biodiversity.
Bilateral engagement
While global unity is vital, tailoring solutions to meet the specific needs and circumstances of individual African nations is equally vital. Climate change manifests differently in various regions of Africa, from droughts and desertification in some areas, to coastal erosion and rising sea levels in others.
Bilateral engagement between the US and individual African countries fosters direct partnerships, allowing a more nuanced approach that identifies specific needs and tailored solutions. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of climate mitigation efforts but also strengthens diplomatic ties and collaborative problem-solving, aligning with the spirit of COP and the pursuit of a sustainable future for all.
As we approach COP28, this presents an opportune moment to address the pressing need for US-Africa climate collaboration. The climate crisis knows no boundaries, and its impact on Africa resonates far beyond its borders. It is a global challenge that demands immediate and concerted action.
