AUC Chairperson declares Africa most impacted by climate change, calls for unified voice and decisive action

Addis Ababa, September 3, 2025 (FMC) – The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, today delivered a powerful message at the opening of Climate Week, urging participants to move beyond “routine statements” and embrace bold, collective action to address the climate emergency.

Acknowledging that the climate has become a global issue with a tangible impact on human development, Youssouf emphasized that Africa remains the most impacted continent despite contributing an insignificant 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

“Cyclical droughts, unpredictable floods and galloping desertification are commonplace,” he said, noting that these phenomena disrupt lifestyles, displace populations, and cause food insecurity.

Youssouf formally established a direct link between climate change and instability. He called for leadership, innovation, and bold decision-making from all communities, including young people and civil society, in the collective fight for the survival of humanity.

He highlighted key African Union programs, such as the African Initiative for Adaptation, the African Initiative for Renewable Energies, and the Great Green Wall in the Sahel, as well as national initiatives like Ethiopia’s Green Heritage. However, he stressed the need to “demultiply initiatives” and accelerate the mobilization of financial resources and the introduction of new technologies.

Youssouf stated that the purpose of Climate Week is to prioritize collaboration, remove barriers, and accelerate progress. He noted that the insights and momentum gained from the event will be instrumental for the upcoming Africa Climate Summit 2 next week, where a unified African voice will seek “climate implementation, fair transition and resource mobilization” ahead of COP30.

The Chairperson concluded by calling on the international community to stand with Africa.

He urged partners to ensure climate finance is fair, the transfer of technologies is effective, and capacity building is prioritized. “Time for decisive action is fleeting,” he warned, before calling for unity to build a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Africa for future generations.