Egypt seeks to raise ambition with no “backsliding or backtracking” on commitments
Egypt, the host of COP27 in Sharm el Sheik in November this year, wants to ensure there’s no backtracking on past commitments. Egyptian Foreign Affairs Minister Sameh Shoukry, who is also the conference’s president has recognised the difficult geopolitical situation could impact on negotiations and the level of ambition this year. He confirmed that the main focus of […]
UNHRC weighs in on Loss and Damage and Tabling of Climate Resolution at UN General Assembly
In a recent resolution the UNHCR has expressly acknowledged Loss and Damage and the importance of meaningful engagement at the Glasgow Dialogue. This will have implications for the upcoming vote to be presented by Vanuatu at the United Nations General Assembly in September.
Implications of the United States’ new Climate Law and Africa Strategy for Africa
The US’s Inflation Reduction Act contains some of the most robust climate change provisions in American history. It will likely spur a race to the top in renewable energy technologies and have implications for African exports in critical minerals for these technologies. The US Strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa, which was released around the same time, however is disappointingly vague on key climate issues, including climate finance.
Kenya’s new president-elect, William Samoei Ruto, on climate change and COP27
Dr William Samoei Ruto, looks likely to become the new president-elect of Kenya. His party has a detailed manifesto on climate change, but critical to its success will be the implementation of Kenya’s already robust climate policy and legal framework. Ahead of COP27, Ruto will need to demonstrate strong leadership on climate issues, and will have to clarify the country’s position on gas adopted in the Kigali Communique and deliver effective leadership through the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change.
AU releases its climate change and resilient development strategy for the next decade
After a long gestation period, the African Union released its Climate Change and Resilient Development Strategy and Action Plan in June this year. Amongst other things, the Strategy places a focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency in achieving the continent’s Just Transition ambitions. In doing so, it forms an important anchor of African political will in the lead up to COP27.
