The East African Community (EAC) is set to present a united front at the 28th edition of the UN Climate Change Conference, commonly known as COP28, as leaders from the region converge to tackle the pressing issue of climate change-induced disasters.
In a communiqué issued by the EAC Heads of State on November 24, the leaders expressed their commitment to addressing climate change as a cohesive regional entity during the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, slated to take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. COP28 is scheduled to run from November 30 to December 12, 2023.
During the 23rd Ordinary Summit of the EAC Heads of State held in Arusha, Tanzania, on November 24, the leaders acknowledged the resolutions emanating from the high-level forum on climate change and food security held the previous day. The EAC High-Level Forum on Climate Change and Food Security, a precursor to the Heads of State meeting, served as a platform to discuss critical issues in the region.
The summit reasserted its dedication to addressing climate change and food security by endorsing sustainable agricultural practices, investing in climate-resilient technologies, and formulating regional policies to enhance adaptation. The leaders also emphasized the importance of rainwater harvesting to support irrigation agriculture and pledged to minimize post-harvest losses through the adoption of modern technologies for improved storage and distribution.
At the high-level forum, Rwandan Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente, standing in for President Paul Kagame, announced the establishment of Ireme Invest – Rwanda’s green investment facility – with a mobilized fund of €300 million Euros. The initiative aims to boost investment in climate-smart agriculture and climate change mitigation.
Ngirente highlighted Rwanda’s commitment to climate resilience and agricultural growth, including initiatives such as affordable financing with single-digit interest rates to encourage investment in the sector, considered risky due to climate change effects. He also mentioned investments in cold rooms and storage facilities to address post-harvest losses, which currently stand at 40 percent in Africa.
Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto, speaking at the same forum, underscored the significance of climate financing in the wake of current shocks affecting livelihoods. He outlined the region’s common proposition for COP28, the “Africa Green Industrialisation Initiative,” aiming to leverage global resources for continent-wide industrialization while prioritizing minerals, agricultural potential, human resources, and green energy.
