The African Climate Reality Project (ACRP) is urging leaders at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, to prioritize Africa’s climate challenges by committing to emissions cuts and substantially increasing finance to support Africa’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Dubbed the “Finance COP,” this year’s conference will focus on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) to set a new finance target. Despite the 2009 pledge to mobilize $100 billion annually from 2020 to 2025, developed countries have repeatedly fallen short. The Paris Agreement requires this amount to serve as a baseline from 2025, with future targets reflecting evolving financial needs.
ACRP highlights four priorities for COP29:
- Increase climate finance for Africa’s ambitious NDCs.
- Capitalize the Loss & Damage Fund to address historical climate debts and fund adaptation.
- Reform COP processes for a fairer, more inclusive decision-making framework.
- Prioritize adaptation to address urgent needs in vulnerable African communities.
While financial commitments are crucial, ACRP stresses that funds must be fairly and transparently allocated, supporting the most affected communities—often those least responsible for climate change. It calls on governments, businesses, and policymakers to ensure human rights protections and amplify the voices of youth and women in decision-making.
ACRP believes that fostering equitable climate finance will help build a sustainable future for Africa and beyond.
