Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, will lead a high-level delegation to the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP28, in Dubai. The delegation aims to amplify Africa’s priorities on climate change alongside global leaders and institutions.
Scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 12, COP28 is the singular global platform for nations to negotiate a collective strategy against climate change. Anticipated to draw over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, industry leaders, and representatives from various sectors, the conference will be a critical forum for shaping international agreements.
As part of its commitment to climate action, the African Development Bank Group has pledged substantial support to integrate climate considerations and escalate climate investments in African countries. COP28 offers a pivotal opportunity for the Bank to advance its climate change objectives on a global stage.
The Bank’s objectives at COP28 include increasing visibility within the global climate change community, mobilizing additional resources for climate funds, and reinforcing Africa’s voice in climate change negotiations. Leveraging its experience in promoting climate-compatible development in Africa, the Bank aims to strengthen its portfolio of climate change-related projects and partnerships with strategic allies.
To achieve these goals, the Bank has outlined a comprehensive set of activities, including high-level representation at the World Leaders Summit, Ministerial Dialogues, and key thematic events. Additionally, the Bank will co-host the Africa Pavilion with partners in the Blue Zone and a joint Multilateral Development Bank Pavilion to showcase collaborative efforts.
Strategic side events on climate change and the Bank’s High-Five priorities will be hosted to facilitate dialogue and collaboration on key areas of the Bank’s climate work. The Bank will also organize Africa Day in collaboration with key partners, supporting the African group of negotiators in their engagement with technical and financial support.
Dr. Adesina and senior management members plan to hold bilateral meetings with key partners, donors, African member countries, and other stakeholders to build and strengthen partnerships, generate knowledge, mobilize resources, and advance the pipeline of climate-related projects.
COP28 will feature the first global stocktake to comprehensively assess progress since adopting the Paris Agreement. The assessment aims to align efforts on climate action and identify measures needed to bridge gaps in progress.
All Bank activities at the Africa Pavilion will be livestreamed on the Bank’s COP28 microsite and dedicated channels, including social media. Stay tuned for updates on the African Development Bank Group’s contributions to shaping global climate change policies.