Ethiopia Hands Over AMCEN Presidency to Libya

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Ethiopia Hands Over AMCEN Presidency to Libya

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Addis Ababa | 16 July 2025 MoPD

H.E. Mr. Seyoum Mekonen, State Minister of Planning and Development, addressed the 20th Ordinary Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN), taking place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 16–17 July 2025. The session is followed by a special event commemorating AMCEN’s 40th Anniversary (1985–2025).

Ethiopia officially handed over the AMCEN Presidency to Libya, concluding its two-year tenure of commendable leadership, which began in August 2023. “We must recognize the immense contribution of AMCEN in helping Africa address environmental challenges and amplifying the continent’s unified voice in global environmental forums over the past four decades,” stated Mr. Seyoum.

He called on AMCEN member states to reflect on the achievements of the past 40 years and to strategize for the future, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to transform Africa towards a sustainable future.

H.E. Seyoum also highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts in translating AMCEN’s decisions into tangible actions through its homegrown and innovative initiatives — including the Green Legacy Initiative, corridor development projects, food system transformation through Yeleemat Tirufat (A Bounty of Basket), expansion of renewable energy for domestic use and regional markets, and the recent ban on the importation of diesel-powered vehicles.

Furthermore, H.E. Seyoum extended a warm invitation to all AMCEN member states to participate in the Second Africa Climate Summit, scheduled for 8–10 September 2025 in Addis Ababa, with Pre-Summit Dialogues taking place from 5–7 September. He emphasized the Summit’s vision of positioning Africa as a global climate leader by showcasing the continent’s ambitious climate actions.

“African countries are strongly encouraged to present their homegrown climate solutions through exhibitions, dialogues, and side events during the Summit. This will help attract development partners to collaborate with Africa in addressing global climate challenges,” Mr. Seyoum urged.

He also appealed to development partners for enhanced access to climate finance and strengthened partnerships to support Africa’s mitigation and adaptation efforts.