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ICJ and states’ climate change obligations: African youth implications

Michael Simire
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ICJ and states’ climate change obligations: African youth implications

The UN’s main judicial organ, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), resolves state disputes and issues legal advice. The ICJ has recently prioritised climate change, generating concerns regarding governments’ legal responsibility to minimise its impacts. African young, who are most sensitive to climate change and may alter their communities and beyond, are affected by this changing legal landscape.

ICJ Courtroom
ICJ Courtroom

One of the ICJ’s major climate change initiatives is advising small island governments on the legal effects of climate change under international law. This investigation may clarify states’ climate mitigation and adaptation duties. The ICJ’s findings might make African countries liable for climate action, as they are disproportionately affected by climate calamities.

The ICJ’s focus on state commitments allows African youth to fight for improved climate policy. Young people throughout the continent are already facing climate change-related droughts, floods, and food poverty. African youth may demand that their governments solve these issues by interacting with the ICJ’s interpretations of international law, supporting a sustainable future.

The ICJ’s findings may further bolster the idea that nations must safeguard citizens’ rights and well-being from climate change. This legal framework might enable African youth to hold their governments accountable for climate failure and encourage them to switch to renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. Advocacy may transform national policies and behaviours.

The ICJ’s focus on state duties may also boost climate change cooperation. Given the global character of this issue, the ICJ’s interpretations may inspire African governments to engage on regional climate efforts. Youth from various nations may develop coalitions to promote shared renewable energy and water management practices, promoting regional unity.

Legal ramifications from ICJ verdicts might improve financing for African climate adaptation and mitigation programs. Countries that meet their climate obligations may attract international financial help. This allows African adolescents to participate in sustainable development and climate resilience projects.

The ICJ’s climate duties may also spur continental educational changes. Governments may include climate education in school curricula as they recognise its relevance. Young people would learn how to advocate for climate change and solve local environmental issues with this transition.
African adolescents also have intriguing legal options from ICJ verdicts. Young campaigners may oppose climate-changing governments and companies using international law. They can explicitly relate climate change to human rights, notably the right to a healthy environment, by suing for environmental destruction.

The ICJ’s framing of climate change as a human rights issue may further increase climate victims’ voices. African youth can support policies that prioritise vulnerable and marginalised groups. Equity and inclusion are essential to climate solutions that address climate-exacerbated imbalances.

ICJ’s involvement in establishing state climate change duties affects African youth. African youth can use legal interpretations to fight for their rights and the environment. They may promote responsibility, collaboration, and sustainable practices in their communities through activism and international legal frameworks, making their communities more climate-resilient.

African youth can guarantee their views are heard in global climate and human rights discussions by leading the climate movement. The ICJ’s interpretations encourage young people to envisage and contribute for a sustainable and equitable future for themselves and future generations.

By Olumide Idowu and Shittu Ismaila

Nnaji calls for realistic gas pricing, cost-reflective tariffs

Michael Simire
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0
Nnaji calls for realistic gas pricing, cost-reflective tariffs

Chairman of Geometric Power, Barth Nnaji, has urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to reconcile the gap between the regulated $2.42  per MMBTU domestic gas price for power generation and the prevailing market rate of $2.70 to $9, advocating a more realistic tariff framework that aligns with actual gas procurement costs for electricity Generation Companies (GenCos).

Prof. Barth Nnaji
Prof. Barth Nnaji

He made this known in his opening remark at the Orient News Nigeria 2025 Conference on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in Lagos.  

He noted that while the official domestic gas price for power generation was formerly pegged at $2.42 per MMBtu, the NMDPRA revised this down to $2.13/MMBtu effective April 1, 2025. 

However, in reality, GenCos often source gas from the open market where prices range from $2.70 to as high as $9/MMBtu, depending on supply constraints and contract terms.

“Because most electricity is generated using gas, and GenCos depend heavily on sourcing this gas from the open market, the disparity between the regulated and actual prices continues to strain the sector,” Nnaji said.

He warned that the pricing gap is worsening liquidity challenges in the power sector, contributing significantly to the ₦1.1 trillion electricity subsidy recorded in the first half of 2025 and the growing trillion-naira debt owed to GenCos by the federal government.

According to him, “The gas-to-power benchmark being below market realities places an unsustainable burden on power producers.”

He also emphasised the need for more cost-reflective electricity tariffs, explaining that the current pricing structure fails to cover the operational and maintenance costs of GenCos, particularly as many critical inputs are imported.

“The energy charge component of the power tariff must be able to cover the cost of maintaining the assets. If operators can’t recover expenses for operations and maintenance, which are often dollar-denominated, there will be recurring system failures,” Nnaji said.

“The regulator must continue to adjust the tariff in line with actual industry costs to ensure sustainability.”

Prof. Barth Nnaji expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s inability to fully harness its vast natural gas reserves for electricity generation, despite having over 200 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of proven reserves.

 Nnaji said, “It’s quite perplexing. We are a gas-rich country, yet we struggle to supply enough gas to our power plants.

“NLNG, with its Train-7, is not operating at full capacity due to feedgas constraints. It’s a contradiction that many find hard to understand,” he said.

He further emphasised that while Nigeria previously exported coal and had a functioning mining industry, the country abruptly abandoned these alternatives without adequate transition planning.

Speaking on the future of Nigeria’s energy mix, Nnaji said that while hydro and solar power have a role to play, gas-fired power plants will remain the dominant source of electricity for the next one to two decades.

“Hydro power has its limits in Nigeria due to seasonal variability and geopolitical concerns, particularly as it depends on stable relationships with northern communities and neighbouring countries,” he said.

He further emphasised that Nigeria is not investing adequately in gas production and pipeline transportation infrastructure, calling for greater private sector involvement.

“Nigeria has all the capacity it needs. Government should remain an enabler, but the private sector must take the lead. If we don’t produce enough gas, even promising initiatives like CNG adoption will not take off,” he stated.

Nnaji noted that most gas-fired power plants in Nigeria suffer from erratic operations due to inconsistent gas pressure and supply, an unacceptable situation for a nation with abundant gas resources.

He argued that with sufficient gas supply, Nigeria could stabilize its economy and expand into industrial processing such as petrochemicals, creating a diversified energy ecosystem.

Commenting on the plan by the MainPower Electricity Distribution Ltd to charge Band A customers N160 per kilowatt-hour, down from the previous N209, following a directive by the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC), effective from August 1, 2025, 

Enugu State under Band A tariff classification are set to enjoy reduced billing rates from next month, as the state electricity regulator slashed prices by nearly 24 per cent

Nnaji cautioned that states must be financially prepared to bear the burden of subsidy if they are to manage electricity supply effectively.

He warned that once states take over electricity regulation and distribution under the Electricity Act, they must be ready to subsidize electricity directly or risk service breakdowns.

He questioned assumptions behind the current tariff framework, where DisCos are expected to supply power to consumers at ₦45/kWh, based on a presumed federal subsidy through NBET to GenCos.

“There’s a belief that the federal government subsidizes power purchases, but in reality, that subsidy isn’t always there. This has contributed to the over ₦5.2 trillion debt owed to GenCos,” he said.

Nnaji also raised concerns about the contentious application of ATC&C losses (Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection losses), which influence cost-reflective tariffs and remittance obligations.

“Some DisCos remit as little as 30 percent of the power they receive, while others remit up to 60 percent. These discrepancies affect liquidity across the market,” he noted.

He stressed the need for enforceable Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and the resolution of issues like vandalism and operational disruptions that hinder gas supply and power offtake.

“Without a consistent gas supply and proper market design, we can’t expect PPAs to deliver,” he said.

Nigeria inaugurates working group on national carbon budget

Michael Simire
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0
Nigeria inaugurates working group on national carbon budget

The Federal Government has inaugurated a Technical Working Group to develop a National Carbon Budget for Nigeria.

Carbon Budget
The minister with other delegates at the inauguration of a Technical Working Group to develop a National Carbon Budget for Nigeria

The initiative is part of efforts to address climate change and meet international commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in Abuja during a Stakeholders’ Engagement towards the Development of the Carbon Budget.

“Nigeria stands at a crucial juncture in addressing the climate challenges that threaten our environment, economy, and social fabric,” Lawal said.

He emphasised that the move reflects Nigeria’s commitment to fulfilling its climate obligations while aligning national policies with sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental preservation.

According to the minister, the development of a carbon budget is not merely a technical exercise but a national imperative that requires input from all sectors of society.

He said members of the technical group were drawn from the energy, transport, agriculture, water resources, financial sectors, civil society organisations, academia, youth, and women-led climate groups, among others.

“Nigeria is committed to addressing climate change through ambitious emission reduction targets as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the implementation of relevant legislation,” he said.

Lawal noted that government agencies would provide strategic oversight, while civil society organisations would serve as advocates and watchdogs to ensure transparency and inclusiveness.

He added that the private sector would play a key role in innovation and sustainable practices, while academia and development partners would provide technical insights, funding, and capacity building.

“A well-structured carbon budget will help Nigeria monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions effectively, contribute to global mitigation targets, protect ecosystems, and enhance resilience against climate impacts such as flooding, drought, and desertification,” he said.

Earlier, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, a Professor of Global Climate and Environmental Governance, said carbon budget is the total amount of greenhouse gases a country can emit within a specified period to remain within a temperature target.

“Scientists have shown that the bulk of the rise in global greenhouse gas emissions stems from human activity,” he said.

Mr. Kenneth Kwujeh, Director of Planning and Projects at the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, said a carbon budget aligns economic planning with climate goals.

He added that developing a succession plan for Nigeria’s carbon budget between 2026 and 2030 is essential for long-term economic growth.

Ms. Yasmin Mohammed, Special Assistant to the President on Energy Transition, called for alignment across ministries, departments, and agencies to make the carbon budget a reality.

On his part, Mr. Kunle Olusile, National Project Coordinator for the UN Industrial Development Organisation, assured of the organisation’s support towards the carbon budget initiative.

By Abigael Joshua

Championing gender equality in climate policy across East and Southern Africa

Michael Simire
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0
Championing gender equality in climate policy across East and Southern Africa

In a major step toward inclusive and equitable climate action, UN Climate Change’s Regional Collaboration Centre for East and Southern Africa (RCC EASA) completed a two-year initiative to strengthen the leadership of women and gender experts in climate negotiations and national policy processes in East and Southern Africa.

Gender
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the leadership of women and gender experts in climate negotiations and national policy processes in East and Southern Africa. Photo credit: UN Climate Change

Funded by the African Development Bank’s Africa Climate Change Fund, the project culminated in the in the release of a technical guide on integrating gender in the preparation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Long-Term Low-Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDs). Designed for policymakers, national climate teams and gender focal points, the guide serves as a practical tool for integrating gender perspectives across climate planning and instruments.

Since its launch in February 2023, the initiative has supported 19 countries across the region, focusing on National Gender and Climate Change Focal Points (NGCCFPs) and other key negotiators. The project helped boost their ability to shape national policies and engage meaningfully in global negotiations, while advancing a vision of climate action that centers on equity and inclusivity. 

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the project team for the invaluable engagements over the past two years – from the insightful knowledge exchange sessions to the unwavering support in facilitating our participation in UNFCCC meetings,” said Jackline Makokha, Director of Gender at the State Department for Gender Affairs and Affirmative Action, Kenya and UNFCCC National Gender and Climate Change Focal Point. “The technical assistance has been transformative. We are certainly not the same, and we are committed to passing on the knowledge and skills we’ve gained, in the true spirit of mentorship. We look forward to similar initiatives in the future – for the good of our region and humanity at large.”

Key achievements of the initiative include four regional dialogues that brought together NGCCFPs, NDC focal points, civil society, and experts to co-develop regional strategies for gender mainstreaming. A month-long online training course equipped over 60 participants with knowledge on UNFCCC processes, gender mandates, negotiation tactics, and practical integration of gender in climate policy.

The project also enabled direct participation of NGCCFPs at key global meetings such as UN Climate Change global climate conferences, including COP 28, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Their participation was deemed an asset within the concerned delegations at the conference.

A deeper social transformation driven by climate policy

The project’s central output, the technical guide, draws from over 20 global resources and offers clear, practical steps to integrate gender across all stages of NDC and LT-LEDs development: from visioning and stakeholder engagement to implementation and monitoring. More than a procedural manual, the guide promotes a gender-transformative approach that challenges systemic inequalities and reimagines power structures through climate action. It urges planners to ask – not just how women and other usually marginalized groups are affected by climate change, but how climate policy can drive deeper social transformation.

The guide’s development was rooted in regional consultation. A high-level capacity-building workshop in Windhoek, Namibia, co-hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism and the Environmental Investment Fund with UN Women, helped shape the guide’s structure. Input from NDC Focal Points, NGCCFPs, sectoral experts, and civil society ensured its content reflects practical realities and regional priorities.

As countries prepare their next generation of NDCs and LT-LEDs, the guide is a critical tool to ensure gender equality is not just considered but embedded and mainstreamed. It reinforces the role of gender focal points as key champions working alongside climate and sectoral experts for an equitable, inclusive, and transformative climate action.

This initiative demonstrates how gender considerations can be mainstreamed from the ground up and offers a pathway for countries to ensure their climate action leaves no one behind. 

Nigeria, Islamic Development Bank mull partnership to boost power infrastructure

Michael Simire
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0
Nigeria, Islamic Development Bank mull partnership to boost power infrastructure

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has expressed interest in partnering with the Federal Government of Nigeria to address critical infrastructure gaps in the power sector, with ready funds to support the country’s energy development as part of a new Country Engagement Framework.

IsDB
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, with IsDB officials

Officials from the Jeddah-based financial institution, led by Alagi Gaye, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, in Abuja on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

During the meeting, Chief Adelabu emphasised the need for substantial investment to ensure stable, efficient, and affordable electricity for Nigerians. He noted that improving power supply remains a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing the Electricity Act of 2023 as a key step toward liberalizing the sector.

Gaye revealed that the IsDB has an active portfolio of nearly $2 billion across various sectors in Nigeria, including energy, transport, agriculture, and education, but stressed the bank’s desire to deepen its involvement in power infrastructure. 

Gaye explained that the bank is developing its first-ever Country Engagement Framework for Nigeria since the nation joined the IsDB in 2005. Unlike its previous project-based approach, the bank now seeks programme-based interventions that align with Nigeria’s sectoral policies, regulations, and challenges. He acknowledged the country’s significant electricity access gap and affirmed the IsDB’s commitment to incentivising private-sector investment in the sector.

In response, Adelabu highlighted ongoing reforms, including the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) – a $2.3 billion agreement with Germany’s Siemens Energy to modernise Nigeria’s aging power grid. He noted that the pilot phase, involving the installation of 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations, has already improved grid stability, with plans for further expansion over the next few years.

The government is also working on a “Super Grid” project to tackle redundancy and has secured support from the World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB) for transmission upgrades.

The Minister also addressed challenges in the distribution segment, where inefficiencies persist despite privatisation. The government retains a 40 percent stake in Distribution Companies (DisCos) and is exploring partnerships to improve their performance. A major concern is the metering gap, with only six million meters deployed out of 13 million registered consumers. To address this, the government launched the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), which aims to import two million meters annually over five years.

Adelabu further discussed Nigeria’s “Mission 300” programme, which promotes renewable energy solutions for rural electrification.

“Given the difficulty of extending the national grid to remote areas, the government is deploying solar home systems and mini-grids to power households, schools, and healthcare facilities while supporting agricultural activities,” he said.

While acknowledging global climate concerns, the Minister emphasised that Africa’s minimal carbon footprint means Nigeria’s renewable energy push is driven more by necessity than emission targets.

Concluding the meeting, the Minister welcomed IsDB’s support and urged the bank to review feasibility studies for proposed projects. He expressed confidence in the partnership, citing the bank’s credibility as a financial institution. The discussions underscored the potential for collaboration in transforming Nigeria’s power sector and ensuring sustainable energy access for citizens.

SRADev inaugurates zero waste ambassadors in Lagos schools

Michael Simire
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0
SRADev inaugurates zero waste ambassadors in Lagos schools

In its drive towards ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment in Nigeria through effective waste management, the Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev Nigeria) has inducted young Nigerians of school age as zero waste marshals so as to further strengthen waste management action plan in the country.

SRADev
Presentation of wastebins by SRADev to Lagos schools

During the Zero Waste Project Launch at Ajao Junior High School, Ajao Estate in Anthony Village in Lagos, Dr. Leslei Adogame, the Executive Director of SRADev Nigeria, noted that the essence of the programme is to ensure effective waste management by adopting zero waste approach.

He said: “We realise that in Nigeria we needed to support the government, particularly the Lagos State Government is doing wonderfully well in the area of solid waste management, but they need some support, if we can entrench zero waste concept, that will go well. So, what we did was the implementation of a project where we identified residential estates that can imbibe the concept of zero waste. Today, we also involved Eko Akete High School, Antony High School and Ajao Estate High School.

“We took them through a six-month intensive training and selected students on what zero waste is all about, develop a model a global model you know for zero waste. We took them through, and they all learned.

“So, today, was just the launching to formally unveil them as zero waste marshals. We are going to be scaling up to other schools in Lagos and across the country very soon,” he stated.

In his remark, Dr. Essien Nsuabia, the Assistant General Manager, Waste Management Development of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), pointed out that Nigerians must adopt principles of zero waste management namely reduce, reuse, recycle and recover.

According to him, there is huge importance of zero waste in municipal waste management such as it reduces waste being sent to landfills, it conserves natural resources as well as saving resources such as energy, water and land.

For more desired results to be achieved, Dr. Nsuabia noted that there is need to get more people involved, implement programmes to reduce waste generation, such as reducing single-use plastics and promoting sustainable consumption, increase recycling rates through education, outreach, and infrastructure development and promote composting of organic waste to reduce waste sent to landfills and create nutrient-rich soil amendments.

In her submission, Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary Education District III, noted that the Zero Waste Project School Launch is an exemplary initiative aimed at ensuring waste are being converted into wealth aside the economic benefits, talking about having a cleaner, safer and healthier environment. “It is more encouraging when we have our young learners getting into this initiative. They can now cascade this information at the school level, at home and at different spaces they occupy So, it is highly commendable.”

Dr. Oyetola, represented by Mr. Iyun Abiodun Oladunjoye, Principal, Eko-Akete Senior Grammar School, opined that the project is the right call in the right direction, saying: “I know this is a pilot scheme, I believe it will cut across all other districts in a very short distance from now So, eventually Lagos State society as a whole will be fully saturated with the new global trend of converting waste to wealth.”

Talking about the overview of the project’s objectives and benefits, Victor Fabunmi, SRADeV’s Project/Programmes Manager, noted that the project trained a sum 50 students on the concept of zero waste and demonstration of waste management through a zero waste approach with provision of colour coded bins to the schools and engagement of waste pickers and also evaluates the students on the lessons learned on zero waste and identifying waste marshals.

Fabunmi highlighted the essence of waste segregation which informed different colours for the waste bins provided for the schools. According to him, the Green Bin is for organic waste -including food waste and vegetable residues, Blue or Yellow Bin is for recyclables like Bottles – glass/PET/HDPE, pure water sachet, food packs, metal scraps, electronic waste, Tetra pad – juice and yogurt packs, paper cartoon while the Red bin is meant for non-recyclables and residues Sachet/wrappers, diapers, sanitary pads, textile waste.

Highpoint of the event is the presentation of wastebins to Anthony Senior High School, Ajao Estate Junior High School as well as Eko- Akete Junior and Senior High Schools.

By Ajibola Adedoye

Legal analysis of ICJ advisory opinion on climate change obligations

Michael Simire
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0
Legal analysis of ICJ advisory opinion on climate change obligations

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has delivered an historic advisory opinion which, for the first time, authoritatively sets out States’ legal duties in relation to climate change. It situates the opinion against the backdrop of five decades of treaty‑making and steadily worsening scientific findings on climate change.

ICJ Courtroom
ICJ Courtroom

The Court confirms that climate change is “a quintessentially universal risk” and holds that every State is bound – by treaty and by customary international law – to act with stringent due diligence to prevent significant harm to the climate system and to cooperate internationally to that end. By explicitly recognising the acute vulnerability of small island developing States, the Court validates the core concerns that drove Vanuatu’s campaign for the opinion. 

Key legal duties clarified

The Court characterises anthropogenic greenhouse‑gas emissions as conduct capable of engaging both treaty and customary obligations. It restates the prevention principle and the duty to co‑operate as rules of customary law and emphasises that compliance must be assessed through the prism of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR‑RC). The latter is described as an “interpretive lens” for all sources, not merely for the climate treaties.

For prevention, the Court sets a “stringent” due diligence standard that obliges States to adopt “all appropriate measures”, including rapid, deep and sustained domestic mitigation, supported by legislation, enforcement and continuous scientific review. The duty to cooperate is likewise framed as a continuing, good‑faith obligation that requires collective elaboration and periodic strengthening of rules, standards and scientific programmes.

The opinion integrates international human rights law, identifying the rights to life, health, an adequate standard of living, and the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as directly threatened by climate change; it affirms that environmental protection is a pre‑condition for their enjoyment. The Court also affirms the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS)’s recent finding that anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions constitute “pollution of the marine environment” under UNCLOS, thereby triggering Part XII obligations—also to be fulfilled with a stringent due‑diligence standard.

Legal consequences for breaches

Where a State’s acts or omissions cause significant climate harm it incurs the full range of consequences prescribed by the law of State responsibility. These include: (a) a duty of performance (to comply with primary obligations); (b) cessation and guarantees of non‑repetition; and (c) an obligation to make full reparation, which may take the form of restitution, compensation or satisfaction. The Court emphasises that each injured State may invoke responsibility against every wrongful emitter and that obligations toward a stable climate are erga omnes: all States have a legal interest in their observance. 

Implications for Vanuatu and the Pacific

The opinion is a decisive legal vindication of Vanuatu’s leadership. It equips the Government with an authoritative statement that legally binding climate duties have existed for decades, despite historical polluters’ disregard for such duties; that the Paris “loss and damage” finance agenda rests on these hard legal duties, including the duty to make reparations for injury resulting from wrongful acts; and that the continued expansion of fossil‑fuel production is incompatible with States’ obligations of prevention and cessation.

Vanuatu may rely on the opinion to press for ambitious NDC revisions at COP 30, to galvanise donor support for the Loss and Damage Fund, and to strengthen its position in any future negotiations on climate justice matters. The finding that responsibility is engaged for cumulative emissions also paves the way for potential litigation against States and possibly corporate actors who have, through their acts and omissions, caused climate harm. 

Next steps

Vanuatu has already started work to integrate the opinion into its climate‑diplomacy toolbox. Immediate next steps include: (1) tabling a resolution in New York that welcomes the opinion and actions its findings; (2) urging developed partners to align bilateral and multilateral climate finance flows with the Court’s guidance; (3) using the opinion to underpin stronger regional positions; and (4) technical work to map the full spectrum of legal implications. In parallel, domestic implementation will demonstrate Vanuatu’s continued good faith commitment to the very obligations it asked the Court to clarify. 

Conclusion

The political language of climate ambition can no longer be detached from enforceable legal duties. For Vanuatu, the opinion is both shield and sword: a shield affirming its right to survival and a sword compelling the world’s major emitters to act in line with science and justice. Disseminating this message widely will reinforce global momentum towards the rapid, just and equitable transition the Court deems a matter of legal obligation.

Prepared for the Government of Vanuatu

Trace turns up the volume for conservation with ‘Music for Wildlife’ concerts, performances from top African stars

Michael Simire
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0
Trace turns up the volume for conservation with ‘Music for Wildlife’ concerts, performances from top African stars

“Music for Wildlife”, a groundbreaking concert series that merges music and wildlife conservation, has launched on Trace Global Network TV channels and streaming platforms. This initiative brings together Africa’s top musical talent to raise awareness of and support for wildlife conservation in Africa.

Nanette (Music for Wildlife)
Nanette (Music for Wildlife)

Produced by Wild Africa, a conservation NGO dedicated to protecting Africa’s wildlife and wild spaces, in collaboration with OAS1SONE, a trailblazing platform for music and immersive experiences, Music for Wildlife features over 150 musicians, united by one urgent message: the need to protect Africa’s iconic wildlife and wild spaces now.

The series is supported by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), a global non-profit long active throughout Africa, helping animals and people thrive together.

“African artists are very powerful voices and can make the difference to raise awareness for better wildlife protection in Africa. Trace is proud to open its global network to host the Music for Wildlife shows that perfectly align with our values and initiatives,” says Olivier Laouchez, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of the Trace Group.

Africa, home to a quarter of the world’s biodiversity, faces enormous challenges, including poaching, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, the illegal wildlife trade and climate change, all contributing to a drastic decline in wildlife populations. The WWF’s 2024 Living Planet Index reports that our wildlife populations have plunged by 76% over the last 50 years.

But there is hope. People are starting to care more deeply about the world around them – wanting to make a difference, to be heard. With this series, a powerful celebration of culture and conservation, we aim to reach over 350 million viewers in 190 countries and expose them to Africa’s amazing music and wildlife.

“We Nigerians love our music and culture, but where is the love for our wildlife? Because of habitat loss, poaching, deforestation and the illegal bushmeat trade, we risk losing them forever,” said CKay from Nigeria who is one of the artists featured in the series.  “Let’s give our wildlife some space and some love.”

Airing weekly from July 2025 audiences will meet some of Africa’s finest musicians, including chart-topping stars such as CKay, Focalistic, Musa Keys, Kamo Mphela, Vinka, Feli Nandi, Shekhinah, Azawi, Joyous Celebration, and Zakes Bantwini. Each 24-minute concert will feature an engaging blend of recorded studio sessions, and captivating wildlife conservation content.

Peter Knights OBE, Wild Africa CEO, said, “Trace appeals to the youth, which is the future of Africa, and their passion will be vital for Africa to conserve the world’s most incredible wildlife and the natural foundation on which human life depends.”

From Cape Town to Lagos, Harare to Windhoek, artists are donating their talent and time to advocate against the threats facing wildlife. Through powerful performances and bold messages, these musicians are inspiring their fans to stand with them, take action, and reconnect with the wild spaces in our national parks.

“Africans should care about protecting wildlife. Wildlife and national parks create a lot of jobs in Africa, such as attracting tourists from across the world. Let’s use music and arts, to protect our amazing wildlife,” said South Africa’s Focalistic, one of the early pioneers of Amapiano, and a multi-award-winning rapper, singer-songwriter, and global superstar.

“Trace, a global powerhouse in African music and media, unites with top African artists and one of the world’s leading conservation organizations in a groundbreaking partnership to amplify the call for wildlife protection. This collaboration not only drives global awareness for Africa’s wildlife but also catapults African music and talent to millions worldwide,” said Jandre Louw, Founder and CEO of OAS1SONE.

According to IFAW President and CEO, Azzedine Downes, “IFAW has long embraced music and the arts as a way to celebrate wildlife and acknowledge the critical importance of biodiversity across the globe. In recognising its existence, we must also recognise its inherent vulnerability. We are immensely proud to work alongside partners as part of the ‘Music for Wildlife’ series, as we strive to achieve a world where both animals and people thrive together.”

EU, China reaffirm climate cooperation amid global tensions, US desertion

Michael Simire
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0
EU, China reaffirm climate cooperation amid global tensions, US desertion

In what looks like a rare demonstration of global alignment, the European Union and China on Thursday, July 24, 2025, issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to climate cooperation, green trade, and the Paris Agreement. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, the statement positions climate action as a crucial area of continued collaboration between two of the world’s largest economies.

China and EU
Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China July 24, 2025. Photo credit: China Daily via REUTERS

The announcement followed a high-level visit to Beijing by European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President, António Costa, who met with Chinese President, Xi Jinping, and other senior officials on Thursday. As the United States steps back from international climate diplomacy, the EU–China statement signals a clear intent to reinforce global ambition and multilateral cooperation.

Notably, the statement comes just one day after the International Court of Justice handed down a landmark ruling reinforcing states’ legal obligations to protect people from the impacts of climate change.

Key elements of the EU-China joint statement include:

  • The EU and China call for “policy continuity and stability” among major economies and a clear “step up” in efforts to address climate change, signaling the need for more ambitious 2035 NDCs. Both parties confirm their intent to submit updated 2035 NDCs (national climate plans) before COP30, covering all sectors and greenhouse gases, aligned with the 1.5°C goal.
  • Reaffirming the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement as the cornerstone of international climate cooperation.
  • Emphasising that climate collaboration holds “great and special significance” for upholding multilateralism and global climate governance.
  • Noting a “solid foundation and broad space” for deepening green cooperation, even amid rising trade tensions. The EU and China commit to enhanced bilateral cooperation in areas such as the energy transition and green economy.

In a reaction, Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org, says: “This joint statement offers a timely stabilising signal in an increasingly fragmented geopolitical landscape and the United States’ withdrawal from climate diplomacy. While this statement reflects a welcome willingness for cooperation, real and ambitious action must follow. Current ambition remains far too low. With COP30 fast approaching, the EU and China must go beyond committing to update their climate targets. Drawing the line for global heating at 1.5°C will require urgent, credible action, not just diplomatic symbolism.”

International Court of Justice declares states have obligation to address fossil fuels in historic ruling

Michael Simire
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International Court of Justice declares states have obligation to address fossil fuels in historic ruling
On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the world’s highest court, issued its long-awaited Advisory Opinion on states’ legal obligations in the face of climate change, offering unprecedented legal clarity on how existing international norms apply to address the climate crisis, with significant implications for ongoing and future fossil fuel production.
International Court of Justice

The landmark ruling affirms that climate action is not optional: it is a binding legal duty grounded in existing treaty regimes and customary law, including human rights and environmental law. The Court acknowledged states have an obligation to prevent environmental harm, protect present and future generations from the escalating impacts of the climate crisis and to cooperate internationally. In a significant outcome, the Court found that fossil fuel production, licensing and subsidies “may constitute an internationally wrongful act”.

Importantly, the Court showed a pathway toward a solution – that “Co-operation between States is the very foundation of meaningful international efforts with respect to climate change” and that “treaties and their coordinated forms of implementation are a principal expression” of this cooperation. This has undoubtedly been the case in recent major international legal efforts, spearheaded by small groups of nation-states, such as the 17 nations participating in the development of a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, and the core group of countries who brought these questions before the International Court of Justice on Wednesday.

Ralph Regenvanu, Minister for Climate Change, Energy, Meteorology, Geohazards, Environment and Disaster Management for the Republic of Vanuatu, said: “This initiative was part of efforts to get the action quicker because we have been in the UNFCCC process for 30 years – we are pulling all international levers possible. We were part of the group that went to ITLOS and got the advisory opinion. We made a submission as part of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and are pushing for the crime of ecocide to be recognised by the ICC. We are also part of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, where we’re pushing to get more countries on board and trying everything at the international level to speed up action. Today has been a concrete contribution to that.”

Vishal Prashad, Director, Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC), said: “By affirming the science, the ICJ has mandated countries to urgently phase out fossil fuels because they are no longer tenable. For Small Island States, communities in the Pacific, young people and future generations, this opinion is a lifeline and an opportunity to protect what we hold dear and love. I am convinced now that there is hope and that we can return to our communities saying the same. Today is historic for climate justice and we are one step closer to realising this.”

The opinion reinforces what climate vulnerable nations and frontline communities have long demanded: that wealthy, high-emitting states must align with international law by rapidly reducing emissions, ending fossil fuel expansion, and supporting those harmed by the crisis through finance, adaptation, and remedy. 

The Court left no legal shelter for business-as-usual. It made clear that the status quo is incompatible with states’ legal obligations under international law – a finding that will inform climate litigation and advocacy for years to come.

Kumi Naidoo, President, Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, said: “This opinion should serve as a clarion call to governments and institutions stalling the fossil fuel phaseout. The ICJ has affirmed what we have long known – that states have a legal duty to protect people and the planet from the impacts of the climate crisis, including taking appropriate action to prevent harm from fossil fuels. This reinforces the urgent need for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, which offers a bold, clear path to turn these obligations into concrete, just action. We applaud the Pacific states that made the voices of frontline communities and their calls for climate justice heard on the global stage and catalysed this historic ruling.”

The court emphasised that existing legal frameworks set forth binding obligations upon all States to act on climate change, highlighting their duty to cooperate in good faith to find solutions. The ICJ’s decision signals that climate obligations extend beyond existing climate treaties and that ambition is not a matter of voluntary pledges. They are rooted in binding legal rules and principles, including the right to life, health, culture, and a healthy environment.

This outcome is only the beginning. Like past landmark ITLOS and Inter-American Court opinions, this ruling will shape a new era of climate justice. Now, it is up to communities and governments to bring it to life.

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