The inaugural Africa Climate Summit which held in Kenya concluded with a commitment to green initiatives, as President William Ruto of Kenya announced $23 billion in pledges for sustainable projects into the continent.

The summit’s “Nairobi Declaration” issued a clarion call for urgent climate action, including advocating for global carbon pollution taxes, phasing out coal, and ending fossil fuel subsidies. African leaders highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on the continent given that Africa contributes less than 4% to global emissions but has so far received only $11.2bn climate finance, for which African leaders urged the global community to act swiftly.

Notable pledges included the United Arab Emirates’ $4.5 billion commitment to African clean energy projects, marking a transformative partnership that could generate 15 gigawatts of clean energy by 2030. Germany and the United States also offered substantial climate finance support, while a plan to increase Africa’s carbon credit production 19-fold by 2030 could unlock vital climate finance for the continent.Yet, there were protests in Nairobi against carbon credits, with critics contending that they allow wealthier nations and corporations to continue polluting.

The summit’s outcomes, however, reflect a significant step towards Africa’s sustainable future, addressing climate change, creating jobs, and fostering economic development.

Edited by: Irene David-Arinze