Africa cannot wait on climate action, AU Commission Chairperson tells world leaders at COP30

Addis Ababa, November 8, 2025 (FMC) – Africa is facing disproportionate impacts from the climate crisis and needs urgent support from industrialized nations, African Union Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said during COP30 events in Belém.

Speaking at a morning side event on Climate & Nature, focused on forests and oceans, Youssouf highlighted Africa’s critical role in global climate action. The continent holds 17% of the world’s forests and extensive marine ecosystems, yet receives less than 5% of global adaptation finance. “There is an inseparable link between climate balance, forests, and oceans,” he said.

He pointed to Africa’s leadership in nature-based solutions, citing initiatives such as the Great Green Wall and the Congo Basin projects, which aim to restore land, create green jobs, and protect biodiversity.

However, he stressed that global solidarity is essential, noting that fair carbon markets, climate finance, and technology transfer must match Africa’s ambitions.

In the afternoon, during a roundtable on adaptation goals, Youssouf reiterated that Africa contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions but bears the brunt of climate impacts. He called on developed countries to honor adaptation finance commitments, describing them as a “moral and historical responsibility” rather than charitable aid.

The Chairperson also highlighted continental initiatives, including the AU Climate Strategy (2022–2032), the Decade of Smart Agriculture, the Blue Economy Strategy, and Mission 300 to expand access to clean power.

He urged that the Global Goal on Adaptation be fully operationalized, moving from planning to concrete action and ensuring predictable and equitable funding for vulnerable nations.

The COP30 sessions, including the side event opened by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, brought together heads of state and senior officials to build political momentum for accelerated global climate action.