Ethiopia’s Minister of Planning and Development and National Coordinator of the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2), Dr. Fitsum Assefa, has expressed optimism for stronger outcomes in tackling climate change across the continent.
Speaking during a virtual briefing on Sunday, Assefa outlined Ethiopia’s preparations to host ACS2 under the theme: “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development.”
She described the summit as a defining moment for Africa, a continent that contributes less than four percent of global emissions but suffers some of the harshest impacts of climate change.
“Africa is home to extraordinary potential — the world’s youngest population, abundant renewable energy resources, and innovative communities driving locally rooted solutions,” Assefa said.
According to her, ACS2 will spotlight Africa-led initiatives in renewable energy, climate adaptation, green growth, and nature-based resilience, while also pushing for fair, predictable, and scaled-up climate finance.
The summit aims to project a unified African voice ahead of COP30 in Brazil, calling for global financial reforms, increased grant-based funding, and investment commitments to accelerate Africa’s green transition.
It will also seek to strengthen partnerships between African innovators and global investors to ensure local solutions receive the support they deserve.
“ACS2 forms a bridge from ambition to implementation. It is where ambition meets action. Africa is not just a victim of climate change; it is a provider of solutions. But we cannot do this alone,” she said.
Assefa called for global solidarity, fair financing, and genuine partnerships to ensure Africa’s resilience contributes to global climate stability.
Organisers disclosed that more than 25,000 leaders and delegates have registered to attend the summit, scheduled for Monday, September 8, to Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the Addis International Convention Centre (AICC), Ethiopia.
