The 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) has officially opened in Baku, Azerbaijan, with the country’s Environment Minister Mukhtar Babayev presiding over the event. The conference, which runs until November 22, is set to tackle global climate issues, with Africa pushing its priorities for a fairer and more equitable climate finance structure.
Africa’s top concerns at COP29 include securing a new climate finance target and strengthening support for the continent’s climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. The region, despite contributing under 4% of global emissions, remains disproportionately vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change, with many countries already experiencing climate-induced displacement.
This year’s conference is particularly focused on scaling up climate finance commitments, aiming to create funding mechanisms that help low-income countries transition to carbon-neutral economies while also protecting the most vulnerable communities. The African Development Bank (AfDB), a key participant at COP29, is leading the charge to ensure Africa’s climate priorities are not overlooked.
Amnesty International has urged wealthier nations—who bear significant responsibility for the historical emissions driving global warming—to fund the costs of loss and damage in Africa. These nations are also being urged to honor their commitment to the Loss and Damage Fund, a crucial international mechanism intended to address climate-related devastation. However, contributions to the fund currently total less than $700 million, far short of the $400 billion needed by 2030 to help low-income nations cope with the aftermath of climate change.
“The international community must follow through on its promises to prevent further displacement and human rights violations in Africa,” Amnesty said in a statement. “Developed countries must fully fund adaptation measures to ensure a just transition away from fossil fuels.”
The conference will also serve as a platform for the AfDB to showcase its initiatives such as “Mission 300,” a collaboration with the World Bank to provide electricity to 300 million people across Africa. One of the key events in the AfDB’s agenda is a summit on “Measuring the Green Wealth of African Nations,” set to take place on November 13, with the release of a comprehensive report on November 14.
Despite Africa’s minimal role in contributing to global emissions, the continent is facing significant costs in energy transitions. The AfDB will advocate for an increase in financial support to the continent, which currently receives only a fraction—3-4%—of global climate finance.
“The African Pavilion at COP29 will amplify our voice and demonstrate the continent’s commitment to achieving climate goals, while simultaneously pushing for the financial backing necessary for a just transition,” said AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina, who is expected to hold bilateral meetings with key partners and donors throughout the conference.
As COP29 draws an estimated 40,000-50,000 participants—including heads of state, business leaders, and civil society representatives—the spotlight will be on Africa’s push for greater financial equity in addressing the climate crisis. The conference’s outcomes are seen as a crucial step in ensuring that the most vulnerable nations, particularly in Africa, are not left behind in the global fight against climate change.
