Africa Day at COP30: Africa Calls for Fair Climate Finance and Green Growth Partnerships
Africa reaffirmed its united stance on climate justice during Africa Day at COP30 in Belém, held under the theme “At the Forefront of Climate Action: Sustainable Financing for Inclusive and Resilient Green Growth.” The event highlighted the continent’s demand for equitable and sustainable financing to drive a green, resilient, and inclusive future.
Bringing together ministers, development partners, and representatives from the African Union Commission (AUC), United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), African Development Bank Group (AfDB), and Afreximbank, the discussions focused on reshaping global climate finance to work for Africa rather than against it.
Speaking at the event, H.E. Moses Vilakati, AUC Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, said:
“Africa speaks with one voice — bold, united, and leading on climate justice. We are not passive recipients of the global transition but active architects of fair, inclusive, and African-led climate solutions.”
Ten years after the Paris Agreement, global climate commitments remain far from reality. While Africa contributes less than four percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, it receives under 10 percent of adaptation finance and only three percent of total climate funding.
AfDB Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, Dr Kevin Kariuki, noted that the Bank is advancing a new strategic vision to unlock Africa’s capital power, enhance financial sovereignty, and build climate-resilient infrastructure.
“Addressing climate change is central to this bold agenda. We are taking decisive steps to close Africa’s sustainable financing gap and accelerate climate action through innovation, partnerships, and financial leadership,” he said.
Africa holds vast potential in renewable energy and critical minerals such as cobalt and manganese, yet continues to export most resources in raw form. Leaders called for investment in local beneficiation, battery manufacturing, and value addition to transform Africa into a global green industry hub.
The continent also has untapped potential in carbon markets. Currently capturing less than one percent of global revenue, Africa could generate up to $100 billion annually and create five million green jobs by 2030 with stronger governance and fair carbon pricing mechanisms.
Participants urged for a reform of the global financial architecture, moving away from debt-heavy models toward grant-based and Africa-led financing solutions. Speaking on behalf of the ECA Executive Secretary, Cosmas Milton Ochieng stated:
“Reshaping the global financial system is not just a matter of fairness but a prerequisite for survival. Africa needs a predictable and equitable climate finance system that channels resources directly to communities driving change.”
Domestic resource mobilisation also featured prominently, with over $350 billion in African sovereign and pension funds identified as potential capital for green infrastructure and innovation.
Africa Day at COP30 was more than a symbolic gathering, it was a collective declaration of intent. Leaders renewed calls for direct access to climate finance, fair carbon pricing, and a just transition that leaves no African behind.
As the global community looks to deliver on promises made in Baku, Africa’s message remains clear: the continent is not seeking charity, but partnerships that recognise its leadership, reward its environmental stewardship, and invest in a sustainable future for all.
