30/04/2026
Representing WEP-SL at the Seventh Africa Climate Talks (ACT 2026) in Addis Ababa, hosted at the United Nations Conference Centre, has been both an honour and a moment of deep reflection.
Today’s high-level discussions reinforced a critical shift in the global climate space: it is no longer about promises it is about implementation, accountability, and measurable impact.
In the opening session, leaders set a powerful tone. Dr. Lelise Neme emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to environmental governance and Africa’s readiness to lead. Claver Gatete underscored the urgency of restoring trust in the global climate system through delivery and accountability, while Moses Vilakati highlighted the importance of aligning climate action with Africa’s development priorities.
As Africa prepares to host COP32, we are stepping into a defining leadership role. Contributions from experts such as Dr. Antwi-Boasiako Amoah (Chair of the African Group of Negotiators) stressed the need for a unified African negotiating position, while Prof. Lisa Sachs called for a shift toward implementation-driven outcomes grounded in equity and justice.
Reflections from Dr. Richard Muyungi and Dr. James Murombedzi further emphasized that despite progress from the Africa Climate Summit, CCDA, and COP30, significant gaps remain between commitments and delivery—especially in adaptation finance and the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund.
A key focus was the Global Stocktake (GST) and its implications for Africa’s NDC 3.0 cycle. As highlighted by Dr. Yaw Osafo, Africa must ensure that its next round of climate commitments is practical, financeable, and aligned with development priorities.
Climate finance remains a major concern. Insights from Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u, alongside panelists including representatives from the African Development Bank, the European Union, and UN Women, pointed to the urgent need for scaled-up, predictable, and accessible financing. There was also a strong emphasis on gender-responsive finance, ensuring women and vulnerable communities are not left behind.
For me, this conversation is deeply personal. In Sierra Leone and across Africa, climate change is not abstract it is lived reality. Climate justice means protecting women and children, strengthening community resilience, and ensuring no one is left behind.
As we move toward COP31 and ultimately COP32, Africa must remain united, strategic, and action-driven. This is our moment to reshape the global climate agenda grounded in equity, resilience, and real transformation.
I am proud to be part of this important platform, amplifying the voices of Sierra Leone and advocating for inclusive, just, and people-centered climate solutions.
Women Environmental Programme
Environment Protection Agency Sierra Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs-SL UNDP in Sierra Leone UN Women U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone Irish Aid C40 Cities Shout Climate Change Africa Climate Solution Alliance Sierra Leone