Switzerland’s 2035 climate target, announced on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, fails to meet the urgency of the climate crisis, climate activists gave said.
Karin Keller-Sutter, President of Switzerland
They disclosed that the government has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 65% compared to 1990 levels by 2035, which would fall short of its fair share.
“Yet, the unquantified reliance on international carbon trading mechanisms raises serious concerns about the credibility of this commitment as these credits do not only distract from domestic reductions but often consist of inefficient credits which do not constitute any real emission reduction,” according to 350.org.
Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigning, 350.org, said: “This target is neither credible nor fair. Switzerland’s reliance on carbon trading loopholes instead of deep domestic cuts betrays real climate leadership. A 65% reduction by 2035 – already inadequate – becomes even weaker when propped up by unreliable offsets. Worse, there’s no real plan to phase out fossil fuels or scale up renewables.”
Switzerland has long depended on purchasing international carbon credits rather than prioritising ambitious domestic action. This pattern continues, with no clear quantification of how much of the target will be met through domestic reductions versus offsets. Without a robust commitment to cutting emissions at home, Switzerland risks failing to deliver real climate progress and undermining global efforts to transition away from fossil fuels, according to obsevers.
The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to an increase of 1.5 degrees. It obliges all countries to take concrete steps to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Countries must raise their reduction target every five years. Yet, Switzerland’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) fails to include clear domestic sectoral targets or a firm roadmap for phasing out fossil fuels in line with global climate goals, contends 350.org.
“Switzerland is perfectly poised; it has the resources and technological capacity to lead on ambitious climate action. Instead of taking the easy way out through offsets, the country should focus on investing in renewable energy, cutting fossil fuel subsidies, and implementing strong domestic policies that ensure a just and effective transition,” stressed Sieber.
Faith-based organisations and all social institutions have been admonished to be a part of environmental protection, as the environment is not an issue that is regional or sectorial, but one that affects every human that inhabits the earth.
Chima Williams displaying the “Ambassador of Environment” award
Executive Director of Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), Chima Williams, stated this while acknowledging an Award as an “Ambassador of Environment”, presented by the National Catholic Women Organisation, Amangwu Edda Diocese in Ebonyi State, during its third national merit award and installation ceremony tagged “NCWO Hall of Fame Recognition”.
He expressed his gratitude to the women group for such initiative, pointing out that the award is a sign that the environmental struggles of EDEN and other similar organisations are getting noticed by the public.
Williams pointed out that defending the environment is a global thing and such awards will motivate EDEN and other organisations to work hard towards uplifting the struggle for environmental protection. He appreciated the Catholic Women Organisation for deeming it fit to honour him and EDEN with such prestigious award.
President of the National Catholic Women Organisation, Amangwu Edda Diocese, Ebonyi State, Chika Priscilla Imoagwu, stated that the award was presented to celebrate illustrious sons and daughters who have made them proud. She added that the award presented to Barr. Chima Williams is not by accident, as his selfless service to the environment has greatly impacted the society and thus deserving the recognition.
In a goodwill message from the EDEN Board of Trustees, the group congratulated Barr. Chima Williams for yet another recognition as a renowned environmentalist and activist, who has dedicated his life towards his mission of giving hope to the voiceless, defending the environment and fighting to make Africa and the world a better place.
“His effectiveness in campaigning at the community, state, national, regional and global level is indelible, and his actions and the results have been recognised not only in Nigeria but also by prestigious institutions like the Goldman Prize which is awarded annually to environmental heroes from each of the world’s six inhabited continental regions.”
Also sending felicitation, Chima Williams & Associates Law Firm, congratulated its principal partner on yet another feather on his hat. A statement by the law firm described Chima Williams as a man with a track record of hard work, integrity, diligence, proven expertise, wealth of experience.
“We are proud of you, and we pray that God Almighty endow you with wisdom in your drive to impact humanity more through your fight for a better human environment,” submitted the firm.
A new “global growth team” of UK Trade Envoys has been appointed by the Trade Secretary to drive UK exports and investment as the Government pulls every lever available to drive economic growth under its Plan for Change.
Flo Eshalomi
Some 32 parliamentarians, including Flo Eshalomi who was appointed Trade Envoy to Nigeria, were drawn from across the political spectrum and tasked with identifying trade and investment opportunities for businesses and championing the UK as a destination of choice for investment in the assigned target markets across six continents.
Each market has been identified as presenting significant potential for growing UK trade and Trade Envoys are appointed on their ability, relevant skills and experience.
Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, said: “Trade and investment are key to delivering economic growth, the number one mission of this Government and a key part of our Plan for Change.
“That’s why I’ve launched a new team of Trade Envoys, who will use their experience, expertise and knowledge to unlock new markets around the world for British businesses, drumming up investment into the UK and ultimately driving economic growth.”
Speaking on the appointment, the Country Director for the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) in Nigeria, Mark Smithson, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Florence Eshalomi MP as the new UK Trade Envoy to Nigeria and look forward to working with her to deliver on the commitments made under the UK Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership and unlock growth and opportunities for our two nations.”
Flo Eshalomi MP and the 31 MPs will work closely with the DBT, bringing in their previous government-to-government experience, to bolster exports, attract investments, and remove trade barriers in their respective markets.
Eshalomi is the Labour (Co-op) MP for Vauxhall and Camberwell Green and has been an MP continually since December 12, 2019. She takes over from Helen Grant MP, who was Trade Envoy to Nigeria from October 2020 to May 2024.
The announcement comes ahead of the new Trade Strategy in Spring, which will prioritise rebuilding the UK’s relationship with the EU and seizing opportunities to access new markets further afield.
FewChore Finance Company Limited, a leading CBN-licensed financial institution, has announced a groundbreaking ₦500 million pledge to support creative entrepreneurs in Osun State under the Osun SDG Creatives initiative. The announcement was made on the first day of the maiden edition of the Osun SDGs Creative Conference, which hosted over 500 participants in-person and attracted twice that number virtually.
Governor Ademola Adeleke and dignitaries at the Osun SDG Creative Conference
Speaking at the event, Governor Ademola Adeleke expressed his excitement at the initiative that offers platform to celebrate creativity, innovation, and the immense potential of Osun people.
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to nurturing the creative economy and its vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, adding: “Creativity and innovation are critical to building a sustainable future, and Osun State is ready to lead this charge.”
The Governor urged participants to seize this moment of the conference to work together, foster collaboration, and build a thriving creative ecosystem that drives sustainable development.
“Today, we are here to reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the creative economy and its vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. This initiative reflects our vision of an Osun State where culture meets innovation, tradition meets progress, and creativity becomes the engine of sustainable development.
“To the creators, thinkers, and visionaries in this room today, you are the torchbearers of this future. The stories you tell, the art you create, and the solutions you design will not only transform Osun but also inspire the world.
“Let us seize this moment to work together, foster collaboration, and build a thriving creative ecosystem that drives sustainable development and prosperity for all,” he concluded.
Organised by the Osun SDG Team, led by Mr. Bamikole Omishore, the Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on SDGs and Multilateral Relations, the event underscores Osun’s commitment to sustainable development through creativity and entrepreneurship.
Speaking earlier, Oluwafemi Muyiwa Badewole, Executive Director of FewChore Finance, expressed the company’s commitment to empowering creatives and driving economic growth in Osun.
“We are thrilled to be a platinum sponsor and partner for this impactful conference. This ₦500 million pledge is a testament to our belief in the potential of Osun creatives to contribute significantly to sustainable development,” Badewole stated.
The fund, set for disbursement beginning March 1, 2025, is tailored specifically for Osun creatives. Each Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) in the sector can access up to ₦500,000, with repayment periods ranging from nine to 18 months. The initiative is expected to support at least 1,000 creative businesses across the state.
FewChore Finance, a ₦20 billion enterprise rated investment-grade BBB+ and BBB- by DataPro and Agusto, respectively, has disbursed over ₦90 billion to more than 15,000 customers since its inception in 2018. The company specialises in providing loans and financial advisory services to high-net-worth individuals, SMEs, retail customers, and the public sector.
“Our digital platform, FewChoreMobile, ensures that account opening, loan disbursement, and repayment processes are seamless. Our team is here on-site to facilitate onboarding for interested participants.” Badewole emphasised
The Executive Director also shared the company’s plans for expansion into Osun State. “While we are currently operating out of Lagos, Abuja, and a newly opened Ibadan branch, it is our hope that by the second edition of this conference, I will be able to announce that our Osogbo branch is operational, making it easier for us to serve the people of Osun,” he revealed.
The Osun SDGs Creative Conference, a landmark event designed to foster innovation and sustainability in the state’s creative sector, has been widely praised. The conference provides a platform for emerging and professional talents to showcase their work, network, and gain access to vital resources.
Climate change campaign group, 350Africa, has expressed solidarity with the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the country faces a severe escalation in violence, particularly in the city of Goma.
Humanitarian crisis in Goma, DR Congo
Heavy fighting has reportedly led to a devastating humanitarian crisis, with bodies littering the streets, hospitals overwhelmed, and thousands fleeing the violence.
The deadly conflict is driven by the fight over the DRC’s vast mineral wealth, with local communities caught in the crossfire while global corporations and foreign powers continue to profit from the exploitation of the region’s resources, submitted 350Africa.
“The humanitarian cost is unbearable, with the people of Goma and surrounding areas paying the ultimate price for this systemic exploitation. Diplomatic and political solutions to the crisis must be engaged immediately to avoid further escalation,” said the group.
Landry Ninteretse, Regional Director, 350Africa.org, submitted: “The situation facing Northern Kivu populations, especially those around Goma is becoming increasingly perilous. The violence unfolding in the DRC is a tragic consequence of global systems that prioritise profit over people. While the people of the DRC face unimaginable suffering, multinational corporations and foreign governments continue to benefit from the country’s critical mineral resources.
“This is a stark reminder of how our fight for climate justice must also address the exploitation and violence that fuels conflict and environmental destruction. We stand with the people of the DRC and all those fighting for a future where their wealth is used to empower communities, not perpetuate cycles of violence. All parties to the conflict must respect international humanitarian law, ensure the protection of civilians, and deliver aid to all affected victims.”
As we step into a world increasingly defined by climate change extremes, the recent conclusion of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) that 2024 marks the warmest year yet is a formidable wake-up call for Nigeria and the rest of the world. Many were already bracing for this announcement, understanding the gradual yet persistent surge in global temperatures, particularly driven by the Global North.
The International Day of Carbon Emission Reduction underlines the need for Africa to spearhead the transition toward a carbon-less economy
This report isn’t just relegated to statistics; it represents an urgent call to action, especially for vulnerable regions like Africa, which bear the brunt of climate change despite contributing minimally to global emissions.
The findings underscore the ongoing warnings from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), pleading with policymakers to heed the escalating climate crises. Africa, a continent already grappling with socio-economic challenges, finds itself in a precarious situation.
The last decade has been significantly warmer, with the global temperature now perilously surpassing the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold outlined in the Paris Agreement. This targets not just the environment but the very existence of communities relying heavily on stable climatic conditions.
In the face of these challenges, the world’s reliance on fossil fuels persists unabated. Even with overwhelming evidence showcasing oil and gas as the primary culprits of climate change—contributing over 75 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions – there remains a disconcerting reluctance to confront this reality.
Instead, discussions pivot toward temporary solutions like Net Zero or Carbon Sequestration, which often serve to stave off urgent responsibility rather than catalyse a shift to genuinely sustainable alternatives.
Equally concerning is the political climate change unfolding in the U.S. with the re-emergence of former President Trump, echoing phrases like “Drill, baby, drill” during his inauguration. This sets a troubling precedent, suggesting a return to aggressive fossil fuel exploration, particularly at a time when global consensus on emission reduction is crucial yet elusive.
Africa stands as a stark paradox in the climate narrative. While the continent contributes the least to global emissions, it remains one of the most impacted by climate change. Reports from the African Development Bank highlight that one of the most vulnerable continents to these changes is Africa.
The continent faces dire consequences, including environmental degradation, public health crises, and significant risks to food security. Extreme weather, socio-political instability, and an increasing influx of displaced populations are shaping a future rife with uncertainty.
As the world observes this year’s International Day of Carbon Emission Reduction, we must reflect on the profound words of renowned Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai: “We owe it to ourselves and to the next generation to conserve the environment so that we can bequeath our children a sustainable world that benefits all.”
Africa must spearhead the transition toward a carbon-less economy, recalibrating its approach to development and sustainability.
The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of African countries must advocate for self-determination, free from foreign and corporate influence. A shift away from dependence on aid and charity is essential; instead, Africa must pursue binding agreements focused on reparatory justice and the cessation of gas projects that prioritize corporate interests over the welfare of its people.
The commitment to safeguarding indigenous control and management of natural resources cannot be overstated. Massive investments in renewable energy, including solar, wind, and hydropower, are not just options but necessities. Moreover, embracing energy efficiency through smart agricultural practices, sustainable land management, and effective transportation solutions will solidify Africa’s resilience against climate change.
In this dire climate landscape, Africa has the potential to rise as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. By harnessing collective strength, knowledge, and a commitment to climate justice, the continent can forge its path toward a sustainable and equitable future. The time to act is not tomorrow; it is now. The legacy we leave for future generations depends on the choices we make today.
By Ogunlade Olamide and Esi-ife Arogundade
Olamide is the Senior Programme Manager (Climate Change) at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) while Arogundade is a Climate Change Advocate at CAPPA
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, the SRSG for the UN Regional Office for Central Africa (UNOCA), Mr. Abdou Abarry, and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed M. Fall, visited Bama in Borno State on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, a day before the kick-off of the fifth Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum for Regional Cooperation on Stabilisation, Peacebuilding, and Sustainable Development in Maiduguri, the state capital.
UN High Level Mission to Bama. Photo Credit: Princewill Chukwuebuka/OCHA
The high-level officials highlighted the steady progress made in Bama. This includes joint Government, UN and partners efforts to provide internally displaced persons (IDPs) with humanitarian assistance and livelihood support and initiatives enhancing social cohesion and reintegration through social and economic activities. They also noted the challenges that remain including violence, the threat posed by the climate crisis, and inadequate basic services.
The officials visited a centre equipping young girls and boys with livelihood skills run by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and a UNICEF-run social cohesion project at the Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS) camp. In addition, they visited a nutrition centre supported by the World Food Programme (WFP) where malnourished children are receiving treatment.
The officials also spoke with women and adolescent girls at a UNHCR/GISCOR Safe Space and met with representatives of humanitarian agencies in Bama. They also paid a courtesy call on the Shehu of Bama Dr. Umar Kyari Umar El-kanemi.
“I returned to Bama today, eight years since my last visit – which was a few months after it was liberated from the insurgency. A lot has changed since then, with marked improvement in the lives of people affected by the crisis. While there is still work to be done to address insecurity and its impact on civilians, I thank the Borno State authorities, donors, UN agencies and partners for their commitment and dedication through this journey that has made Bama what it is today. I also call for sustained support to address the remaining challenges,” said the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall.
Bama town remains vulnerable to attacks by non-state armed groups due to its proximity to the Sambisa Forest. This has made it difficult for communities to carry out livelihood activities, including farming, fishing and firewood collection. This has increased their dependence on humanitarian assistance.
Bama illustrates the situation of many communities across the Lake Chad Basin impacted by 16 years of conflict in the region.
The Creek Girl Empowerment Initiative (CGEI) organised a sensitisation programme in Esenaebe and Kpakima Secondary School, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, to educate and sensitise female students on the dangers of truancy, drug abuse, and prostitution, while promoting menstrual hygiene and care.
The CGEI sensitisation programme
The CGEi team visited the communities respectively, to increase awareness among female students about the dangers and consequences of truancy, drug abuse, and prostitution, to improve the understanding of the importance of menstrual hygiene and care, and to establish a support system for female students, particularly those of menstrual age.
The team also established the Creek Girl Care Clinic (CGCC), a support system for female students, and also provided sanitary pads, ensuring easy access for female students of menstrual age. During a feedback session, it was discovered that both schools lacked basic facilities, including toilets (WASH facilities) and sick bays.
Speaking to the students, the Executive Director of CGEi, Doubra Etolor, educated the girls on personal hygiene during their menstrual circle and in their everyday lives.
“When girls start their periods, it’s usually met with either feelings of excitement or fear, depending on how each girl views the coming changes that prepare them for womanhood. But for many girls in the creeks, it often comes as a ticking clock that marks the beginning of the end of their education.
“Many schools, including the ones we visited, don’t have safe and clean toilets where girls can take care of themselves during their periods, and beyond that, most girls in the creeks don’t have access to – nor could they afford – reusable pads or tampons. Without feminine hygiene prducts, many girls skip school while on their periods.
“That means they miss up to a week of school every month so girls start to fall behind and eventually drop out. So, to cushion this effect, the Creek Girl Empowerment Initiative, while carrying out its sensitisation project on curbing female vices, decided to distribute sanitary pads to girls of menstrual age. We also intend to establish sick bays in targeted schools in the creeks. So, we are calling on well-meaning individuals, organizations and institutions to support the visions and goals of this initiative,” said Etolor.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of Neferok Development Foundation, Ayo Nefertiti Okotie, spoke to the students on prostitution and its dangers and encouraged the students to focus on their studies to become what they want to be in the future.
The programme had an interactive talk, where students were engaged on the dangers of truancy, drug abuse, and prostitution. The term “anyhow waka” was used to reduce the harsh tone associated with these vices. Emphasis was placed on the effects and consequences of indulging in these vices.
President Bola Tinubu has concluded his visit to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where he joined other African leaders to participate in the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria joins global leaders at the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
The President, who arrived with his team arrived on Sunday, January 26, 2025, is now on his way back to Abuja.
The two-day summit, hosted by the government of Tanzania in collaboration with the African Union, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the World Bank Group, adopted the Dar es Salaam Declaration.
The Declaration focused on providing access to electricity for 300 million people in Africa by 2030.
The high point of the event was the presidential endorsement of the Dar es Salaam Declaration by African leaders at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre.
Following the reading of the Declaration, leaders from Nigeria, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia signed the document.
Through the Declaration, the leaders from the 12 countries expressed their commitment to ensuring electricity access for their citizens in the next five years.
The 12 nations plan to achieve the goal through National Energy Compacts, which identify specific policy measures to address constraints across their energy sector and set targets based on their unique context.
In the speech read by Mr Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, the Nigerian leader lauded the AfDB, the World Bank Group and development partners for their collective pledge to bring electricity access to 300 million people in Africa by 2030.
President Tinubu called on African leaders to prioritise energy access, emphasising collective action.
“Let us work together to create a brighter future for our citizens—where every African can access reliable and affordable energy.
“A future where our industries thrive, our economies grow, and our people prosper,” the President said.
President Tinubu also used the occasion to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its unelectrified population by 2030.
“This is an ambitious goal, but we can achieve it together.
“As Nigeria’s President, I am committed to making energy access a top priority,” he said.
Detailing the substantial progress Nigeria has achieved with the support of international development partners, President Tinubu acknowledged AfDB’s $1.1 billion, expected to provide electricity for five million people by the end of 2026.
He said the bank’s $200 million in the Nigeria Electrification Project would provide electricity for 500,000 people by the end of 2025.
“We also look forward to the AfDB’s planned $700 million investment in the Nigeria Desert to Power programme and its planned $500 million facility for the Nigeria-Grid Battery Energy Storage System, which will provide electricity for an additional two million people.
“We have equally begun making plans to ensure the effectiveness of the World Bank’s $750 million support for expanding Nigeria’s distributed energy access via mini-grids and standalone solar systems that will provide access to power to 16.2 million people,” he said.
President Tinubu thanked Mr Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, and Dr Akinwunmi Adesina of AfDB for their transformative vision, which he said “will light up and power Africa.”
He also applauded the contributions of the UN Sustainable Energy For All, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the Global Energy Alliance for Development.
“As we all know, Africa is rich in energy resources, yet millions of our citizens still lack access to reliable and affordable energy.
“This situation is unacceptable. It is our responsibility to take collective action to change this narrative,” President Tinubu said.
President Tinubu highlighted ongoing investments in renewable energy, particularly solar power in Nigeria.
“For example, the Federal Government is in the final stages of developing an electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure programme emphasising renewable energy and establishing stricter vehicle emission standards.
“This will ease adoption barriers, galvanise partnerships, and provide affordable EV financing options. I am pleased to announce that the first 100 electric buses are already in the country.
“Nigeria’s energy sector is growing as a direct result of our reforms. The Nigerian government continues incentivising those interested in investing in renewable energy, oil and gas energy efficiency,” he said.
Tinubu said that buoyed by Nigeria’s successful attraction of over six billion dollars in new investments into its energy sector in 2024 alone, his administration is keen to build on this success in 2025 and beyond.
At the summit, the International Finance Corporation announced that it had committed $70 million in private sector funding to five Nigerian Renewable Electricity Service Companies.
This is under the Nigeria Distributed Access Through Renewable Energy Scale-Up programme, to be implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency.
Nigeria’s National Energy Compact, presented at the summit on Monday, sets targets with implementation timelines and outlines for the various planned reforms.
They include expanding power generation and investing in transmission and distribution infrastructure at competitive costs.
The reforms are geared towards financially viable utilities that provide reliable service, and incentivising private sector participation to unlock additional resources.
Other reforms include embracing distributed renewable energy and clean cooking solutions for affordable last-mile access and leveraging the benefits of increased regional integration.
According to the document, Nigeria will require an investment of $23.2 billion for last-mile electrification, including contributions from the public and private sectors.
Director-General of National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, has called for dredging of major rivers and dams in the country to avert adverse effects of flooding.
Participants at the validation retreat on the draft Model Climate Change Law for Africa, in Abuja
Sulaiman made the call at the opening of a three-day validation retreat on the draft Model Climate Change Law for Africa in Abuja on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
The law was drafted by African Group of Negotiators Expert Support (AGNES)
Sulaiman said while Nigeria continued to make progress in enhancing its climate change governance actions, closing infrastructure gaps, including dredging of major rivers and dams in the country, remained vital.
He said that dredging would avert the ravaging impacts of floods and erosion that usually accompanied the country’s rainfall cycle.
“Whereas many stakeholders have recognised the need for dredging of major rivers and dams, the commitment of public funds in this direction has been poor.
“For instance, of the total of N14.85 trillion proposed for capital expenditure in the 2025 budget of the Federal Government of Nigeria, only 0.03 per cent is committed to projects aimed at dredging major rivers and dams.
“Dredging these waterways remains vital to mitigate the devastating impacts of floods in 2025 and beyond; hence, it should be given the necessary priority in the 2025 budget,” he said.
In his remarks, the AGNES Team Lead, Dr George Wamukoya, said that the effects of climate were evident in the African society.
According to him, Africa must put mechanisms in place to address the menace, stating that one of such mechanism is a legal framework.
Wamukoya, who said that the draft was put together by experts across sectors, added that adequate attention was given to administrative structure as well as the roles of citizens.
He said that the aim of the draft framework was to enable African countries to have legal frameworks on climate change to enhance the continent’s negotiation at the global stage.
The team lead said that the draft was for African countries and that they were at liberty to domesticate the law as it suited individual countries.
Speaking at the occasion, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Director in Nigeria, Dr Rose Mwebaza, said as long as the G-20 countries continued the current emission, Africa would continue to suffer the effects of climate change.
Mwebaza, however, said that Africa could not afford to fold its hands without doing anything, stressing that the continent would remain weak at the negotiation table without domestic legal frameworks.
According to her, one of the reasons Africa did not have access to enough climate change finance is lack of domestic framework, as only about four of the 54 countries in the continent have climate change laws.
She commended the initiative, saying that it would be part of the topics for discussion at the Heads of State conference coming up in February.
Mr. Walters Tubua, the Regional Lead for West and Central Africa, United Nations Climate Change, said that the adverse effects were visible on the continent.
Tubua said that Africans must roll up their sleeves and fight climate change, as the last 10 years had been the hottest.
He said that though the legal draft was coming very late, it was better late than never.
Tubua urged African countries to adopt and domesticate the law as an instrument to combat climate change in the continent.
