African climate leaders have issued a urgent call to reshape global climate strategies through localized science and equitable funding during the 13th Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa. Richard Muyungi, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), emphasized that "African science must take center stage" in addressing the continent's worsening droughts, floods, and heatwaves.
With 110 million Africans impacted by climate disasters in 2024 alone, Muyungi stressed that climate finance represents "a right, not charity", urging developed nations to fulfill funding commitments. Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) Executive Director Mithika Mwenda revealed a stark gap: Africa needs $3 trillion to meet 2030 climate goals but receives less than 4% of global climate funds.
The conference highlighted demands for structural reforms in international finance systems, including operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund. Participants underscored the need to integrate Africa's ecological knowledge and vulnerable populations into decision-making processes – a critical step as the continent advances its climate diplomacy through science-backed strategies.
