The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has released a report, “Global Status of Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras“, that highlights new knowledge compiled by 353 experts from 115 countries and stresses the urgent need to address overfishing and bycatch in all countries
Shark caught in a fishing net. Photo credit: Visiondive/Adobe Stock
The IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Shark Specialist Group (SSG) has published a status report on sharks, rays and chimaeras, nearly 20 years after its first report warned that sharks were threatened but underrepresented in conservation. Today we understand more about sharks, rays and chimaeras than ever before, but the scale of their declines threatens to outstrip improvements made in research and policy.
In Oman, shark liver oil is used in traditional eyeliner. In Indonesia, shark and ray skins are packaged as chips. Skates are the seafood counterpoint to buffalo wings at restaurants in the USA, along with mako and thresher sharks. Across Europe, you can sling a luxury stingray skin bag over your shoulder as you sample shark meat sold as European conger, order veau de mer in France, and find ray cheeks purveyed as a delicacy in Belgium. Ray and shark skins are fashioned into shoes, wallets, belts, handbags and purses in Thailand. In Yemen, even the corneas of shark eyes have been reportedly used for human transplant and the cartilage is marketed as a cure to all sorts of human ailments.
These are the extraordinary country-by-country insights detailed in the report, which consolidates the biology, fisheries, trade, conservation efforts, and policy reforms for sharks, rays and chimaeras across 158 countries and jurisdictions.
At more than 2,000 pages long, the report follows one in 2005 that highlighted a rise in the global fin trade and the low conservation profile of sharks, and especially rays and chimaeras.
Since then, the global demand for shark meat has nearly doubled: the value of shark and ray meat is now 1.7 times the value of the global fin trade. Trade has diversified and products such as ray gill plates, liver oil and skins are valued at nearly $1 billion annually.
Sarah Fowler of the Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) led the 2005 report’s publication and contributed to the latest version. She says, “The conservation and management of sharks is difficult for a variety of reasons, but many governments are breaking down the silos that separate how we deal with sharks and rays as fisheries resources, and as wildlife to conserve.”
“Nearly 20 years after the first report, there have been drastic changes, with sharks and rays now among the most threatened vertebrates on the planet,” explains Alexandra Morata, the IUCN SSC SSG Programme Officer.
Overfishing is driving most species to extinction. Indonesia, Spain, and India are the world’s largest shark-fishing nations, with Mexico and the USA adding to the top five shark catchers. But only 26% of species globally are targeted: most are caught (and retained) as bycatch. Huge population declines have been seen in the rhino rays (such as wedgefish), whiprays, angel sharks, and gulper sharks.
But two decades of research and major policy changes also mean that the solutions are now outlined country by country and can guide governments to implement conservation action and make fisheries sustainable.
“This report is a call to action so we can work together and make each of the country recommendations a reality, especially those relating to responsible fisheries management. It is the only way these species will survive and continue to thrive in aquatic ecosystems,” says Dr Rima Jabado, the IUCN SSC deputy chair and SSG chair who led the 2024 report.
We need sharks, rays and chimaeras. We are only beginning to decipher the role they play in delivering life-supporting resources and services. Some species cycle nutrients around the ocean; others help us fight climate change by acting as carbon sinks or maintaining carbon sequestering ecosystems like mangroves. They underpin food security in vulnerable coastal communities. In some developing nations, fishers have reported that more than 80% of their income depends on shark and ray fisheries.
“The report is also a reflection of the tremendous dedication of scientists, researchers and conservationists who are working as a community to contribute to conservation and make a lasting change,”Dr Jabado adds.
Access to remote areas, especially across Africa, has increased scientific understanding of the scale of exploitation. Knowledge has improved significantly in Asia, Africa, Central America, the Caribbean, and the Indian Ocean. There are also hopeful instances of sustainable fisheries in Canada, the USA, and Australia.
There have been incredible strides in research and policy, but this hard work will only save species from extinction if the report’s recommendations are implemented nationally.
“The message is clear,” says Dr Jabado. “With the precarious state of many of these species, we can’t afford to wait.”
It is important to address the concerns raised in Farooq Kperogi’s recent article, “Tinubu’s Buharisation of the NNPC”, and to clarify some of the misconceptions about the operations and leadership structure of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.
GCEO NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari
First, employment, promotions, appointments, and movements of business leaders at the NNPC are not influenced by ethnicity, tribe, religion, or political affiliation. Therefore, decisions within the NNPC are guided strictly by merit, business requirements, and expertise.
This approach ensures that only the most qualified and competent individuals occupy positions that are critical to the company’s success. It is significant that our company focuses on efficient and effective service delivery, which is anchored on the commitment of qualified work team.
The NNPC prides itself on being a professional organisation with a diverse leadership lineup that includes individuals from various parts of the world, not just Nigeria. The presence of qualified foreigners in the employ of the NNPC, who have been bolstering the value chain of production and distribution of allied products, is verifiable.
It is, thus, sad that a professor of Mr Kperogi’s standing would resort to and play up the issue of ethnic identities in the configuration of the work team in NNPC just to demonise President Tinubu. This editorial preoccupation of Mr Kperogi is nothing but sheer red herring, ostensibly orchestrated to detract the President’s disciplined leadership that upholds the freedom of the NNPC as well as the company’s work ethic that has produced its strings of sterling performances.
Under the leadership of Mele Kyari, the NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones and recorded several “firsts” in the industry. These milestones were not defined, coloured or contoured by primordial fault-lines of tribe and religion. They were inspired by the collective drive for excellence. These milestones include groundbreaking advancements in exploration, production, and global partnerships that were previously thought unattainable. This success is a testament to the company’s focus on competence and professionalism rather than on parochialism as insinuated in the editorial offerings by Mr Kperogi.
Regarding Mr Kperogi’s notions about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is essential to highlight that Mr President has not interfered in the operations or leadership movements within the NNPC. On the contrary, his administration has introduced transformative policies that have added immense value to the oil and gas sector and the broader Nigerian economy. President Tinubu’s approach has been to empower institutions like the NNPC to operate independently while fostering a conducive environment for growth and innovation. His reforms have set a benchmark that has significantly improved the sector, surpassing the achievements of many of his predecessors.
It is disappointing that individuals like Mr. Kperogi, who have lived and observed governance structures abroad, would overlook these accomplishments and focus on divisive narratives. Symbolism, while important, must not overshadow the substantive achievements and transformative impact of policies and leadership on national development.
We extend an open invitation to Mr. Kperogi to visit the NNPC and witness firsthand the professionalism, sacrifices, and daily efforts that go into driving Nigeria’s economic engine. He will see a team that works tirelessly to contribute to the growth of our economy and the prosperity of our nation.
The NNPC remains committed to fostering unity, embracing diversity, and upholding the principles of meritocracy. It is through such commitments that we can continue to work to achieve and strengthen national cohesion and position Nigeria as a global leader in the energy sector. We urge commentators and stakeholders alike to base their assessments on hard facts and evidence, rather than conjectures, for the greater good of our nation.
Olufemi Soneye is the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the NNPC Ltd.
Mozambique’s journey to becoming a leading energy producer is intimately linked to its ability to promote unity, security and democratic principles,writes theAfrican Energy Chamber
President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique
With plans underway to restart construction of the delayed $20 billion Mozambique LNG project, which promises to produce 13.1 million tonnes of LNG per year for domestic use, it has never been more important to prioritise peace and stability in Mozambique.
Following the 2024 general elections, violence during protests has rocked the country, leading to unrest and instability. As the voice of Africa’s energy sector and an advocate for Mozambican prosperity, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) fully supports the country’s government and calls for peace, stability and sustainable development as Mozambique enters a new era of energy growth.
Since the discovery of significant natural gas deposits off Mozambique’s northern coast in 2010, expectations for the country’s economic prosperity have soared. An IMF report predicted $500 billion in total revenues by 2045 and average annual real GDP growth of 24% from LNG exports between 2021 and next year. Energy majors TotalEnergies, ExxonMobil and Eni are developing integrated LNG projects, while new upstream companies are entering the market and gas-to-power projects are nearing completion.
Projects such as Coral Sul LNG, the Rovuma LNG facility and the Temane gas-to-power plant have the potential to attract billions of dollars in investment and revenues while providing stable energy to over 2 million homes by 2030. These developments represent not only a success story for international investors, but also a success story for Mozambique. The country is positioned as one of the most dynamic gas markets on the African continent, with offshore reserves that could push it into the world’s top ten producers, accounting for up to 20% of African production by 2040.
Geopolitically, these industrialisation efforts could benefit the Southern African region as a whole and transform the country into an energy hub for neighboring countries such as Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Swaziland, and South Africa. In addition, a 2,700 km coastline along the Indian Ocean makes Mozambique a gateway for ships crossing the hemisphere, allowing it to specialize in efficient and global energy production while diversifying access to quality goods at low prices from markets in Asia, India, Europe, and America.
For Mozambique to realise its immense potential, however, it is essential that the country remains firmly committed to political stability and sustainable development. A peaceful and stable environment is the foundation on which the international community can confidently build long-term partnerships, ensuring that the immense opportunities presented by the development of its natural resources translate into tangible benefits for all.
Mozambique’s journey to becoming a leading energy producer is intimately linked to its ability to promote unity, security and democratic principles. A sustained commitment to peace will not only reassure international investors but will also strengthen the country in a way that drives broad-based prosperity for its people and solidifies its role as a key player in Africa’s energy future.
“Peace and stability are essential for Mozambique to unlock its immense economic potential. As the country emerges as a global energy hub, the confidence of the international community rests on a unified and secure nation. A commitment to peace will not only ensure the success of the multi-billion-dollar energy projects, but will also ensure long-term prosperity, driving sustainable growth for Mozambique and the entire Southern African region. To achieve this, the government must find common ground and reach agreements that translate into long-term benefits for all the people of the country,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.
In the interest of Mozambique’s prosperity, social well-being and economic development, the AEC calls on the government and opposition to strike a balance and commit to post-colonial and post-conflict stability. Mozambique is at a crossroads: one path leads to increased instability, while the other has the potential to transform the country into a trusted partner in the global energy community.
An oil and gas industry consultant, Dr Maurice Ibe, has tasked the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) to ensure that the four government refineries are functioning at full capacity.
Port Harcourt Refinery
Ibe, who is the Group Executive Chairman of the Benham Group, made this known in an interview in Abuja on Saturday, December 28, 2024.
Ibe said that without effective and functional refining system, Nigerians would never see a reasonable drop in petroleum prices soon.
He said that until the Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna refineries started working optimally and producing at full capacity, the country would still be dependent on Dangote Refinery.
He said the functionality of the refineries would create competition in the sector and ensure fuel pump price reduction.
“The Port Harcourt Refinery is functional, but the truth of the matter is that it is not producing at full capacity to enable us have the level of impact that it should have on pump prices.
“We are hoping that, with time, it will start producing well enough for independent petroleum marketers to load, including every other private petroleum dealer.
“If it is functional at full capacity, there is no way we will not be seeing an average of 200 trucks rolling out of the refinery every day, ‘’ he said.
The expert, who is also a consultant to the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), highlighted some basic yardstick and parameters to measure refineries functionality.
He said a functional refinery firstly, must have the capacity to load at least 200 trucks of 50,000 litres of fuel daily.
He also said that if the Port Harcourt refinery was producing at full capacity, pump prices would have dropped in Port Harcourt, Aba, Owerri, Umuahia, Enugu and nationwide.
“Irrespective of what the NNPC Ltd. and dignitaries are saying concerning the refinery, the fact remains that the basic yardstick to measure the success or productivity of the refinery is still lacking.
“There have been some loadings from the refinery but it has not loaded more than 10 trucks daily since it resumed. I have my members on ground.
“If it was working at 70 per cent capacity, there was no way we would not be having at least 50-60 trucks loading per day.
“The independent petroleum marketers have more fuel stations across the country than the major marketers and NNPC Ltd. too.
“No matter what it loads, if the IPMAN whom I consult for have not started loading, you cannot make an impact nationwide.
“Dangote Refinery is doing its best but government needs to come down a little hard on the NNPC to ensure the rest of the refineries are functional for Nigerians to feel the impact of reduced pump prices,’’ he said.
He said Dangote, as a private refinery, would set prices based on cost of production, hence, the country should not fully be dependent on the refinery.
He explained that since the sector was being operated under a Petroleum Industry Act (PIA 2021) which has deregulated the industry, through subsidy removal, products were sold based on market forces.
“But to help alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, government refineries must work at full capacity,’’ the expert warned.
Speaking on the new ex-depot price of N899, he said though ex-depot price dropped following the downward reviewed price announced by the two refineries, but the fact remained that IPMAN had not started loading according to the price.
According to him, the new prices will reflect at the fuel outlets once the marketers load new products.
The old Port Harcourt refinery with 70 per cent operational capacity began truck out at petroleum products on Nov. 26.
It has its daily output as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Household Kerosene (HHK), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO).
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has said that President Bola Tinubu ‘s administration is spearheading transformative reforms that are reshaping the nation’s healthcare landscape.
Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare
Pate, who was named one of the 100 Most Influential Africans, disclosed this in an interview on Friday, December 27, 2024, in Abuja.
He was reacting to his inclusion in the prestigious list released by New African magazine.
The 2024 New African magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential Africans includes individuals from 29 countries, with Nigeria having the highest representation, followed by Kenya.
Other Nigerians on the list include Yemi Osinbajo, Akinwumi Adesina, Adebayo Ogunlesi, Wale Tinubu, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Prof Benedict Okey Oramah, Tariye Gbadegesin, Samaila Zubairu, Kemi Badenoch, Olugbenga Agboola, Tunde Olanrewaju, Aliko Dangote, Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, Chinasa T. Okolo, Olajide Olatunji, Tayo Aina, Adejoké Bakare, Ayra Starr, Chigozie Obioma, Yinka Ilori Amina, Lola Shoneyin, Tunde Onakoya, and Ademola Lookman.
The magazine’s editor described the list as a “large family get-together,” reflecting the Ubuntu philosophy of “I am because we are”, emphasising unity in a polarised world.
This year’s list highlights the growing significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and climate action, featuring experts addressing ethical concerns and biases in AI systems.
The minister recounted how he turned down an appointment as CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, chosing to return home to lead Nigeria’s health sector, a decision that is already yielding remarkable results.
“At the heart of these reforms is the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII).
“The initiative replaces the previously fragmented health system with a cohesive ‘one vision – one conversation, one budget, one report’ approach.
“This framework has not only united federal, state, and local governments but also galvanised private and international partnerships.
It is also mobilising an unprecedented $3 billion in external funding and $20 billion in domestic investments within four years,” he said.
He said that the impact of NHSRII was most evident in the revitalisation of Nigeria’s primary healthcare system.
Pate said that Nigeria had become one of the first countries to receive over one million doses of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine under his leadership.
He described the feat as a groundbreaking development in the fight against one of the nation’s deadliest diseases.
The minister’s influence extends beyond Nigeria. As the West and Central Africa representative on the Global Fund Board (2024–2026), he advocated for increased funding for Africa’s health systems.
The selection of Nigeria to host the 5th Global High-Level Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in 2026 underscores the country’s growing role in addressing global health challenges.
Facilities once plagued by shortages of medical supplies and personnel are now equipped to provide essential services.
For instance, the Karmo Primary Healthcare Centre in the Federal Capital Territory now records a significant increase in antenatal visits, with women attesting to the availability of quality care.
“For the first time, I feel safe delivering my baby at this facility,” said Mrs Mariamu Yusuf, a mother of three.
Meanwhile, experts believe that Pate’s reforms are laying the foundation for one of Africa’s most accountable health systems.
Dr Sarah Eke, a public health consultant, said that what made Pate’s approach unique was its focus on measurable results and sustainability.
“As Nigeria reaps the benefits of a unified health system, the question remains whether these reforms can be sustained beyond his tenure.
“However, for now, communities across Nigeria are already experiencing the transformative power of an integrated healthcare framework. Proving that bold leadership and strategic partnerships can, indeed, change lives,” Eke said.
Key achievements of NHSRII Under Pate’s Leadership: were mobilising $23 billion in funding, rerevitalising over 5,000 primary healthcare centres, and spearheading the deployment of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine.
Meanwhile, some health stakeholders explained that Pate’s story was not just about reforms, but also about hope, resilience, and a vision for a healthier Africa.
The New African magazine’s 2024 issue of the 100 Most Influential Africans highlights individuals making significant impacts across various sectors, including politics, business, civil society, science, academia, creative arts, and sports.
The publication, established in 1966 and distributed in over 100 countries, provides an African perspective to global news and profiles these influential figures in detail.
The list reflects diverse contributions shaping Africa’s future on the global stage.
As Dr Akinwumi Adesina prepares his handover notes, he reflects with pride on the remarkable accomplishments achieved during his presidency.
Dr Akinwumi Adesina (second left) receiving the “African of the Decade” award
His message highlights the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including the Executive Directors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and investment partners across the continent.
These achievements stand as a testament to the power of collaboration, showcasing how unified efforts can drive impactful change.
Adesina’s leadership has left a lasting legacy, setting a solid foundation for future initiatives and strengthening partnerships that continue to advance the continent’s development.
Conscious of this, Adesina highlighted his imminent exit during the 2024 Africa Investment Forum Market Days, which recently ended in Rabat, Morocco.
He said: “This is my final attendance at the Africa Investment Forum as President of the African Development Bank Group.
“That’s because when you all meet next year, I would have completed my two 5-year terms as President of the African Development Bank Group.
“I am proud of what we have achieved for Africa. I am proud of you our Africa Investment Forum partners.
“I am proud of the Executive Directors of the African Development Bank for believing in the Africa Investment Forum and for their strong current and continued future support for the Africa Investment Forum.
“I am proud that we have built a world-class investment platform. It has been such a great pleasure and honor serving you all as Chairman of the Africa Investment Forum.
‘It has been the greatest honor of my life serving Africa! I will keep cheering and pitching for investments in Africa!”
In 2015, when he took the reins as the eighth president of AfDB, Adesina inherited an institution with a rich history of promoting economic development and social progress across the continent.
However, Adesina had a bold vision – to transform Africa’s economic landscape by bridging the massive infrastructure gap, unlocking the continent’s vast investment potential, and accelerating growth and development.
Adesina’s decade-long impact on continental development has earned him the inaugural “African of the Decade” award.
Adesina formally received the prestigious award at the 2024 AIF, in early December.
The award was sponsored by the All-Africa Business Leaders Awards, ABN Group, in collaboration with CNBC Africa.
It honours individuals who have made a lasting and profound impact on the continent.
ABN Group Chairman, Rakesh Wahi, praised Adesina for his unwavering commitment to ethical and responsible leadership and his ability to drive meaningful change across Africa, particularly through the bank’s High 5 strategic priorities.
“Adesina has demonstrated a significant impact on the African continent through innovative solutions, projects, or initiatives that address the continent’s pressing socio-economic and environmental challenges.
“He has consistently shown leadership, vision, and dedication, driving positive change in sustainable development in Africa,” Wahi said.
Similarly, Nialé Kaba, Minister of Planning, the Economy and Development and AfDB’s governor for Côte d’Ivoire, expressed his government’s profound gratitude to Adesina for his leadership and significant achievements as the head of the institution.
Also, Adama Coulibaly, Ivorian Minister of Finance and Budget, expressed Côte d’Ivoire’s deep gratitude to Adesina “for his leadership and the important results achieved” as the head of AfDB.
“At a personal level, I would like to say that you are the heart and soul of this institution.
“Looking at the results achieved, the African Development Bank has come a long way in six decades. Your efforts have helped lift millions of Africans out of poverty.
This is an opportunity for us to celebrate how far we have come and together, face the challenges of building the Africa we want,” Coulibaly said.
As Adesina prepares to pass the baton to his successor, one of his most enduring legacies may undoubtedly be the AIF.
Launched in 2018, the AIF has revolutionised the way Africa attracts investment, fostering a new era of collaboration, innovation, and deal-making.
Some of the participants at the Rabat Market Days said that AIF had been a game-changer for Africa, providing a unique platform for investors, policymakers, and project sponsors to converge, network, and close deals.
Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, notes that the forum’s impact is evident in several key areas. It has facilitated the closure of numerous high-profile deals, worth billions of dollars.
“These investments are transforming Africa’s infrastructure landscape, from energy and transportation to agriculture and urban development.
“The AIF has mobilised significant investment commitments from global investors, including pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and private equity firms,” he said.
This influx of capital is helping to bridge Africa’s infrastructure gap and drive economic growth.
The AIF has also played a crucial role in creating new markets and opportunities for African businesses.
During a meeting with Adesina, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State also noted that, by providing a platform for project sponsors to showcase their initiatives, the AIF has helped to unlock Africa’s vast investment potential.
Abiodun, who had left Nigeria to attend the AiF moments after presenting his state’s budget proposal to the Ogun State House of Assembly, said Adesina’s leadership was the driving force behind the AIF’s success
“Adesina’s leadership has been instrumental in the AIF’s success. His passion, vision, and relentless drive have inspired a new generation of African leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors.
Under his guidance, the AfDB has become a beacon of innovation and excellence, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and innovative financing models to drive growth and development,” he said.
As Adesina prepares to leave the AfDB, Hassatou Diop-N’Sele, vice president and CFO, AfDB, noted that his legacy would be remembered for generations to come.
According to her, the AIF, in particular, will remain a testament to his transformative vision, leadership, and commitment to Africa’s economic development.
Since its inception in 2018, the AIF has mobilised nearly $180 billion in investment interest.
This is a staggering amount, considering the forum’s primary goal is to bridge Africa’s infrastructure gap and unlock its vast investment potential.
“The AIF’s impact is evident in various sectors, including energy, transportation, and agriculture.
“For instance, the forum has facilitated the closure of several high-profile deals, including a $2.6 billion deal for the Accra Skytrain project in Ghana and a $1.3 billion deal for the Lagos Cable Car Transit project in Nigeria.
“The forum has mobilised nearly $180 billion in investment interest, which is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth.
“The AIF has facilitated the development of critical infrastructure projects, including energy, transportation, and water supply projects,” she said.
By attracting investments and promoting economic growth, the AIF is helping to reduce poverty and improve living standards across Africa.
Overall, AIF has been a resounding success, attracting billions of dollars in investments and promoting economic growth and development across Africa.
One of the participants at the AIF, Tunmise Ayodele, said Adesina’s tenure as President of AfDB has also been marked by several significant legacies beyond the Forum.
Ayodele, who is the Managing Director, Global ENSHET HEIGHTS, listed some of Adesina’s other legacies to include High 5s Development Agenda.
Adesina introduced the High 5s development agenda, a bold and ambitious plan to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation.
The High 5s focus on five critical areas: Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialise Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.
According to Ayodele, African Development Fund (ADF) Replenishment is another legacy Adesina will be leaving behind in AfDB.
Under Adesina’s leadership, the AfDB successfully replenished the African Development Fund (ADF), securing $7.6 billion in funding commitments from donors.
This replenishment has enabled the AfDB to continue providing critical support to low-income countries and fragile states.
Ayodele recalled that Adesina also oversaw the establishment of the New Development Bank and the Africa Investment Platform.
“These initiatives have expanded the AfDB’s partnerships and collaborations, enhancing its ability to mobilise resources and support African countries,” he said.
Raouf Mazou, Assistant High Commissioner for Operations at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), noted Adesina’s efforts on climate change and environmental sustainability.
He said Adesina had been a vocal advocate for climate action and environmental sustainability.
“Under his leadership, the AfDB has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting green growth, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing climate resilience,” he said.
He added that Adesina had also prioritised women’s empowerment and youth employment, recognising the critical role these groups play in driving Africa’s economic transformation.
The AfDB has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting women’s economic empowerment and creating jobs for young Africans.
He has also implemented significant reforms aimed at strengthening the AfDB’s institutional capacity and governance.
These reforms have enhanced the bank’s effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability.
These legacies, among others, have cemented Adesina’s reputation as a visionary leader and a champion of Africa’s economic development.
In spite of his numerous achievements, Adesina’s tenure also faced several challenges as president of AfDB.
Adesina implemented significant reforms aimed at strengthening the AfDB’s institutional capacity and governance.
However, these reforms were not without their challenges, as they required significant changes to the bank’s culture, processes, and structures.
Some staff members and stakeholders resisted the changes, which created tension and challenges for Adesina’s leadership team.
In 2020, Adesina faced a leadership challenge when a faceless group within the institution accused him of corruption and abuse of office.
Although, an independent investigation cleared him of all charges, the episode created uncertainty and undermined confidence in the AfDB’s leadership.
US Treasury Secretary, Steve Mnuchin, personally signed a letter to the AfDB board rejecting an internal investigation that cleared Adesina.
He said: “We fear that the wholesale dismissal of all allegations without appropriate investigation will tarnish the reputation of this institution as one that does not uphold high standards of ethics and governance.”
Barbara Barungi, AfDB’s former lead economist on Nigeria, however, described Mnuchin’s move as significant.
“It has now cast a limelight on governance issues and on the importance of an independent investigation to uphold the integrity of the AfDB.
“There are very few people who were willing to stick their necks out,” she said.
Mr Debisi Araba recalled that it was not surprising to the world that a second investigation was not backed by no African country.
He wondered: “What does that say about the other countries that have lined up behind the US?”
“He’s due to run unopposed but you want to muddy the waters with this stain of corruption. I believe he will be vindicated.”
On the accusation of Adesina’s preferential treatment for Nigeria and Nigerians, Araba dismissed the talk of the “Nigerianisation of the bank” as false.
He said Nigeria was under-represented in employee numbers despite being the largest shareholder.
Adesina’s tenure also faced other challenges, including Funding and resource constraints; Geopolitical and economic headwinds; and Regional and country-specific challenges.
The AfDB faces significant funding and resource constraints, which limit its ability to address the vast development needs of African countries.
Adesina had to navigate these constraints while trying to maintain the bank’s impact and relevance.
He also had to navigate the challenges posed by global economic trends, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, all of which impact the bank’s operations and effectiveness.
The AfDB’s staff morale and welfare have been affected by various factors, including the reforms, restructuring, and leadership challenges. Adesina had to balance the need for reform with the need to maintain staff morale and welfare.
The AfDB operates in a diverse range of countries and regions, each with its unique challenges and complexities.
Adesina had to navigate these regional and country-specific challenges while trying to maintain the bank’s relevance and impact.
At the UN Climate Change Conference COP29 that held November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the UNFCCC’s six Regional Collaboration Centres (RCCs) were recognised as key drivers of real-world climate action, thanks to their vital role in capacity building, technical assistance and strategic networking.
Participants at one of the RCCs events at COP29 in Baku. Photo credit: UN Climate Change
Through a series of 13 events at COP29, the RCCs brought together governments, private sector representatives, Indigenous Peoples and non-governmental organisations to share regional insights on addressing climate change and connect local needs with international policy frameworks.
These events included the RCCs Annual Global Forum, highlighting the achievements, challenges, and priorities of the work of all six RCCs in 2024 while setting the stage for regional priorities in 2025. A high-level event on engaging the private sector from different regions of the world focused on the implementation of national climate plans (nationally determined contributions, NDCs).
“For us to keep 1.5 alive, we need to turn the incremental progress we have seen so far into exponential climate action on the ground, in the real economy and in every country of the world,” said Noura Hamladji, UN Climate Change Deputy Executive Secretary, speaking at the high-level event.
“We simply cannot achieve the scale of transformation that is needed without the technical innovation, the financial capacity, the operational agility that the private sector brings to the table… After all, we know that implementation is always a collective task,” added Hamladji.
COP29 also included interactive sessions on NDC design and implementation in several regions, transformative adaptation in Asia-Pacific, the operationalisation of Article 6 in Latin America, and access to climate finance for African innovators.
Another event at COP29 highlighted the work and achievements of the six RCCs in collaboration with the wider UN system and other multilateral, regional and local organisations, to support countries in boosting climate action, raising national ambition and increasing resilience.
RCCs: fostering climate collaboration and action at the regional level
For more than a decade, the six UNFCCC Regional Collaboration Centres have helped drive climate action and enabled countries to develop and achieve their climate action goals through capacity building, technical assistance and fostering collaboration within their regions. The RCCs also bridge global strategies to local contexts and ensure that local voices are heard in global decision-making processes, promoting equitable, effective climate solutions.
“Isolated action cannot compete with aggregated and integrated action, which is why RCCs were originally created, in partnership with like-minded organisations, to support countries,” said James Grabert, Director of UN Climate Change’s Mitigation Division.
In 2024, the RCCs focused on fostering networks and engaging partners to organise events in the regions. This helped countries benefit from diverse fields of expertise, exchange information on specific topics to increase their knowledge base and receive targeted technical support.
“There is a lot of really incredible work happening with the RCCs, helping to be a bit of the glue at the regional level and bringing partners together in support for countries,” said Jennifer Baumwall, Head of Climate Strategies and Policy, UNDP.
“Regional collaboration has allowed for the emergence of solutions and the ability to learn from the experiences of other countries,” said Mirey Atallah, Chief of UNEP’s Adaptation and Resilience Branch, Climate Change Division.
By bringing together networks and partners, RCCs facilitate the implementation of the Paris Agreement and also ensure that local voices are heard in global decision-making processes.
“We would like to see UN Agencies and other partners coming to our region – not to set up their own programmes, but to support the ones we have already established, such as the Pacific Climate Change Centre and Weather Ready Pacific,” said Sefanaia Nawadra, Director General, Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme.
By coordinating with regional entities, the RCCs have become indispensable agents for advancing climate action, supporting the application of global strategies to local contexts. The RCCs are ensuring that the Paris Agreement is not just a framework but an actionable plan for communities, driving real-world results, proving that regional collaboration is more than a tool – but a cornerstone of effective climate governance and accelerated action.
“The journey towards a resilient and sustainable future doesn’t only hinge on the regulatory frameworks but on dynamic partnerships that empower private enterprises to contribute meaningfully to our climate goals,” said Analiza Rebuelta-Teh, Undersecretary of the Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources, addressing the high-level event.
At the UN Climate Change Conference COP29 in Baku in November 2024, world leaders and stakeholders gathered to accelerate global efforts to reduce deforestation, restore degraded forests, and harness the critical solutions forests provide for reducing greenhouse gas emission and strengthening resilience.
Forests are said to be vital in tackling the climate crisis. Photo credit: David Riaño Cortés / Pexels
Underscoring the urgency of action, the United Kingdom’s International Forest Unit pledged £3 million to support UN Climate Change’s REDD+ framework over the next four years.
“Forests are the lungs of our planet – without them climate security is impossible,” said Ed Miliband, the UK’s Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. “We’re determined to play our part in mobilising finance to protect and restore global forests in these critical years for climate action.”
The funding will bolster activities under the Paris Agreement’s framework to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+) in many countries, enabling the creation of dedicated platforms for technical dialogues among REDD+ experts and improving the transparency and implementation of forest-related climate actions.
Forests: a cornerstone of climate action
Managed and natural land ecosystems help absorb about one third of the carbon dioxide emissions caused by human activities, acting as natural carbon sinks. However, deforestation and land-use changes contribute to around 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions (IPCC). Without urgent action, these vital ecosystems risk further degradation, undermining their ability to combat climate change.
In the Global Stocktake in 2023 at COP28, Parties reached a landmark agreement to halt and reverse deforestation and forest degradation by 2030 – a commitment that countries must reflect in their updated national climate plans due in early 2025. Yet, gaps in funding, data availability and knowledge-sharing hinder progress.
Scaling up REDD+ to unlock forest potential
REDD+ provides a robust framework for countries to cooperate on forest-related climate actions. Through a system of reporting and expert technical assessment, REDD+ activities are integrated into the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement. This ensures actions are visible and measurable.
“REDD+ is the framework that countries have agreed to use to stop deforestation and forest degradation, restore forests, and enhance the services that forests provide for adaptation, biodiversity, and local livelihoods,” said Dirk Nemitz, Team Lead of the Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use Unit at UN Climate Change.
AccuWeather expert meteorologists have said that 2024 will go down in the record books as a hot and stormy year with frequent rounds of extreme weather across the United States.
People wash their faces amid hot weather, in Sanliurfa, southeast Turkey, July 16, 2022. Photo credit: IHA Photo
“We witnessed a historic year of extreme weather in America. Hurricanes, floods, damaging windstorms, large hail and tornadoes devastated communities across the country,” said AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist, Jonathan Porter.
“This was one of the most destructive and expensive hurricane seasons in modern history. The impacts of extreme weather have taken a major financial and emotional toll on millions of Americans this year. Unfortunately, this is a trend that we expect to further escalate in the coming decades. More and more people, businesses and communities are feeling the direct impacts and harm from extreme weather and climate change,” added Porter.
The frequency of extreme weather events has been driven, in part, by rising air and ocean temperatures around the globe. This year is on track to be Earth’s hottest year on record, shattering a record that was just set in 2023.
AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist and Climate Expert, Brett Anderson, says 2024 is also the first year that average global temperatures are expected to surpass the benchmark of 1.5 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial average.
“Our world is getting warmer as we continue to burn fossil fuels around the globe. Temperatures will continue to rise if we continue emitting tons of greenhouse gases that are trapped in our atmosphere,” said Anderson.
“Higher air temperatures and warmer oceans are providing additional energy and moisture for storms. Warmer air can also hold more moisture, leading to more extreme rainfall rates and destructive flash flooding, which we have seen this year,” added Anderson.
The financial toll of extreme weather
Experts at the AccuWeather Global Weather Centre issued total damage and economic loss estimates for nine weather events in the United States this year. These exclusive estimates incorporate not just insured losses, but uninsured losses, as well as business and tourism disruptions and long-term healthcare costs from major weather events.
Feb. 9 –AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from intense storms slamming into California to be between $9 billion and $11 billion
April 17 – AccuWeather estimates that an exceptionally warm winter in the Upper Midwest and northern Plains cost businesses $8 billion in economic damage and losses
May 17 – AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from a windstorm in Houston, Texas, are between $5 billion and $7 billion
July 9 – AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Beryl in the United States is $28-32 billion
Aug. 9 – AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Debby in the United States is $28 billion
Sept. 12 – AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Francine in the United States is $9 billion
Sept. 18 – AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from an unnamed storm with tropical storm impacts in North Carolina are $7 billion
Oct. 3 – AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Helene to be between $225 billion and $250 billion
Oct. 10 – AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Milton to be between $160 and $180 billion
“The financial ripple effects of hurricane impacts this year will be felt for a long time. AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss from Beryl, Debby, Francine, Helene, Milton and the unnamed subtropical storm in the Carolinas will surpass half a trillion dollars. The cleanup and recovery process could take 10 years or longer in some of the hardest-hit communities. The long-term costs of health care and mental health impacts will last for decades. Researchers say hurricanes can contribute to thousands of excess deaths in the years after a major landfall,” Porter said.
He added: “The damage and economic loss from tornadoes, floods, hail, wildfires and drought this year is mounting. The extreme weather of 2024 should be a further wake-up call for businesses, government leaders, emergency officials and the insurance industry to prepare for a future with more weather disasters, extreme temperatures, and unprecedented impacts. We need to become more resilient to extreme and severe weather and ensure each family, business and government organisation has the best plan in place to be better prepared and stay safer, given increasing severe weather impacts.”
Healthy forests sustain biodiversity, livelihoods, and local economies. Home to most of the planet’s terrestrial species, forests provide millions of people with jobs, along with food and fuel for more than 90 percent of the world’s most vulnerable populations. When forests are threatened, so too are the benefits they provide and the survival of wildlife.
Participants at the Regional Training on Physical Inspection of Timber Shipments and Risk Assessment in Kampala, Uganda
To strengthen responses in addressing illegal trade in tree species listed in the Appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in collaboration with the CITES Secretariat, hosted a Regional Training on Physical Inspection of Timber Shipments and Risk Assessment in Kampala, Uganda, from November 25 to 29, 2024.
The training was organised by the UNODC Passenger and Cargo Control Programme (PCCP) with support from the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC) and the European Union-Uganda Forest Partnership, and was possible through generous funding provided by China, the European Union and the United Kingdom.
The specialised training aimed to equip front-line law enforcement such as Customs officers, and CITES authorities from Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa with the knowledge and skills needed to enforce CITES regulations more effectively and ensure the sustainability, legality, and traceability of international trade in CITES-listed tree species. This initiative supports the implementation of CITES Decision 19.90, paragraphs b) and c), and aligns with the outcomes of the CITES Task Force meeting on illegal trade in specimens of listed tree species, which was convened in February 2022.
CITES Secretary-General, Ivonne Higuero, said: “By enhancing the capacity of frontline officers in regions affected by illegal trade in CITES-listed species to detect illegal timber shipments, identify wood species, and develop national risk assessments, we are supporting Parties in strengthening the implementation of the Convention. This effort reinforces global commitments to conserve biodiversity and promote the legal and sustainable trade of forest products.”
The cooperation between the CITES Secretariat and the UNODC on their PCCP underscores a strong commitment to deliver training by experienced CITES enforcement officials. The PCCP incorporates a multidirectional, holistic approach to combat the escalating threat of illegal deforestation and trafficking. This approach aims to support law enforcement working in key countries affected by the illegal timber trade and to enhance the detection of illegal timber shipments by relevant authorities.
Highlighting the importance of international cooperation to effectively tackle illegal timber trafficking in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, Sharon Nyambe, Head of the UNODC Office in Uganda, said: The Regional Training represents an important step in our fight against illegal timber trafficking”.
She added: “We’re not just building technical capacity; we’re strengthening the networks and relationships needed to combat these transnational crimes through enhanced collaboration and information sharing.”
The training equipped officers with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to combat the illegal timber trade. Participants learned to identify and assess risks, detect concealed timber specimens, and verify CITES permits and certificates. They were trained in advanced techniques for physical inspection, forensic timber identification, securing crime scenes and reporting seizure of CITES-listed species.
The proof of the training’s impact occurred during a full-morning port visit, where participants put theory into practice with the physical inspection of an actual timber shipment. Officers demonstrated their new skills in container inspection, wood species identification, and evidence collection techniques.
“Observing officers from various countries collaborate in real-time to analyze suspicious timber shipments highlighted the true value of Passenger and Cargo Control Programme’s practical training approach. Such hands-on experience is essential for building the confidence and expertise required to effectively detect illegal timber shipments,”said Topan Renyaan, PCCP Deputy Regional Coordinator for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
“With over 113 Port Control Units and 23 Air Cargo Control Units across more than 85 countries, PCCP is well-equipped to enhance supply chain security while facilitating legitimate timber trade, providing an additional layer of protection through improved risk profiling and targeting,” added Renyaan.
The training also included the integration of genetic methods for timber identification, soon to be established at Uganda’s wildlife forensics laboratory with support from UNODC and its partner, TRACE Wildlife Forensics Network, under the UNODC project “Combating deforestation and forest degradation in Uganda through the criminal justice system,” funded by the European Union through the European Union-Uganda Forest Partnership. This tool will aid in combating illegality in the forestry sector, detecting fraud and enforcing legislation to curb the supply of illegal wood products.
This joint initiative marks a significant step in strengthening the capacity of law enforcement in Africa to combat environmental crime and safeguard the region’s valuable forests. The CITES Secretariat is working closely with ICCWC partners to implement training on physical inspection of timber shipments in regions significantly affected by illegal trade in CITES-listed tree species.
In previous years, this was combined with ongoing support provided by ICCWC to West and Central Africa. This training was developed as part of the third phase of support based on lessons learned and additional needs identified.
