African countries expect firm financing at COP27

JOHANNESBURG. – The 2022 United Nations climate change conference, or COP 27, should address funding for climate adaptation and mitigation for developing countries, while spelling out implementation plans and prioritizing African interests, South African researchers have said.

Romy Chevallier, a researcher from South African Institute of International Affairs, said the “African COP” should be the “implementation COP” with a clear road map on how to fund various climate policies and projects.

COP 27 will take place in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt from Nov 6 to 18. Although it emits less than 5 percent of greenhouse gases globally, Africa has been the most seriously impacted by climate change. The unprecedented drought in the Horn of Africa over the past four decades has once again highlighted the climate plight Africa faces.

Chevallier stated there is a strong expectation from African countries that the COP 27 presidency, Egypt, will represent developing countries’ and particularly African interests very well. The COP president has an influence on the agenda and guidance on discussion, she said.

A key issue to be discussed during COP 27 would be honouring the pledge made by developed countries during previous UN climate change conferences to contribute US$100 billion to developing countries annually to support climate adaptation and resilience The commitment has not been met and is a key outcome of a successful COP 27, Chevallier said.

Meanwhile, many African countries will be looking forward to some robust discussion and clarity on how the global community will support the implementation of the just transition from coal to clean energy.