AU Consultation on Climate Change, Peace, and Security Concludes in Nairobi
The African Union Commission (AUC) successfully concluded a three-day consultation in Nairobi, Kenya, on the Common African Position on Climate Change, Peace, and Security. The event aimed to address policy gaps, enhance decision-making processes, secure funding, and strengthen technical capacities to address the intersection of climate change, peace, and security.
The consultation provided a platform for discussing the impact of climate change on security and peace, identifying opportunities for engagement, and proposing solutions for both current and future challenges. Participants dedicated significant effort over the three days to refining the draft Common African Position on Climate Change, Peace, and Security (CAP-CCPS). This document reflects Africa’s collective interests and ambitions, with a focus on pressing issues and complex problems.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Sarjoh Bah, Director of the AU Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Department’s Conflict Management Directorate, emphasized the urgent need for action. “Climate change is a ‘threat multiplier’ that requires swift and effective solutions. We must adopt a data-driven approach, integrating mitigation and adaptation strategies into peacebuilding initiatives. To ensure a resilient future for Africa, let us continue to collaborate and pursue transformative action,” Dr. Bah stated.
Ambassador Katana Angore, Coordinator of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC) and representative of the Kenyan government, commended the draft CAP-CCPS. She also expressed appreciation to the AU Commission and its partners.
Kenya believes that a unified Common African Position will enhance decision-making, promote international cooperation, address policy gaps, and attract climate finance. “It is crucial that we present a united front in international forums to effectively address issues related to peace and security. This will expedite the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063,” she said.
Key outcomes of the consultation include:
- Development of robust and innovative strategies for climate security.
- Prioritization of policies, programs, and decisions based on solid scientific evidence.
- Securing climate finance for adaptation, resilience, and human security.
- Integrating climate considerations into peacebuilding initiatives and peace support operations (PSOs).
- Advocating for compensation from major polluters for the climate impacts on African countries.
- Strengthening the capacities of Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), Regional Mechanisms (RMs), Climate Commissions, and the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change.
These recommendations aim to fortify Africa’s response to climate challenges and enhance regional and international cooperation.
