Africa pushes forward on climate despite U.S. withdrawal from global deal
The world’s poorest continent won’t backtrack on climate goals even as the United States pulls away from key international commitments, says Kenya’s climate envoy ahead of COP30.
Duncan Miriri reports for Reuters.
In short:
- The Trump administration exited the Paris Agreement and pulled out of clean energy partnerships, including with South Africa, earlier this year.
- Africa’s lead climate negotiator Ali Mohamed said private investment in renewables continues to grow, making clean energy economically viable regardless of shifting politics.
- African leaders will meet in Nairobi in July to finalize their COP30 stance, emphasizing climate finance and equitable global financial reforms.
Key quote:
"There is no reverse gear on this matter of climate change."
— Ali Mohamed, chair of the Africa group of climate negotiators and Kenya's special envoy for climate
Why this matters:
Africa, home to 1.5 billion people and the world’s youngest population, is quickly becoming the clearest lens through which to view the injustice of climate change. While contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the continent bears the brunt of climate disruption. At the same time, Africa’s energy demands are rising, and many countries are grappling with how to expand electricity access without deepening reliance on fossil fuels. The promise of climate finance from wealthier nations — meant to support adaptation and clean energy — has largely fallen short, leaving many African leaders frustrated. As former President Biden’s climate pledges recede under the current U.S. administration, nations like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are pushing ahead with their own climate strategies, often with support from Europe or China.
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