H.E. Mr. Seyoum Mekonnen Calls for Enhanced Climate Action in Opening Speech at the 5th Africa Climate Talks

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H.E. Mr. Seyoum Mekonnen Calls for Enhanced Climate Action in Opening Speech at the 5th Africa Climate Talks

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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; 22 April 2024

His Excellency Mr. Seyoum Mekonnen, State Minister of the Ministry of Planning and Development of Ethiopia, delivered an official opening address at the 5th Africa Climate Talks, hosted at the United Nations Conference Centre in Addis Ababa. The state minister emphasized the urgent need for increased climate action aligned with the 1.5-degree goal of the Paris Agreement and called for substantial financial support for developing countries.

The conference, themed "Climate change and development in Africa: a critical inquiry into third generation NDCs and just transitions for Africa," brought together a diverse group of participants, including policymakers, academics, civil society leaders, and development practitioners. H.E Seyoum highlighted the importance of this gathering in shaping Africa's response to climate challenges and common agendas.

"In light of the recommendations from recent assessments, Ethiopia has embarked on comprehensive reforms," stated H.E Seyoum. These reforms focus on policy restructuring, institutional development, enhanced resource mobilization, and improvements in knowledge management systems. The state minister underscored the importance of robust stakeholder engagement and coordination to ensure effective implementation and impact.

He also shared insights into Ethiopia's significant strides in environmental sustainability through its Green Legacy initiative. "Our commitment extends beyond tree planting. We are intensively focusing on water resource management to enhance water security and strengthen regional cooperation," he explained. This initiative demonstrates Ethiopia's dedication to proactive environmental stewardship and its role as a leader in regional sustainability efforts.

The state minister expressed appreciation for the active participation of all stakeholders in the Africa Climate Talks. He stressed the importance of collective efforts in achieving the ambitious targets set forth in the global climate discourse and underscored the need for developed nations to support these endeavors through finance and technology transfer.

As the conference continues this week in Addis Ababa through the 10th African Regional Forum for Sustainable Development, it serves as a critical platform for defining the next generation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and aligning them with sustainable development goals. The state minister call for renewed commitment and support highlights a pivotal moment for Africa as it seeks to define a sustainable and equitable path forward in the face of escalating climate challenges.

The outcomes of the 5th Africa Climate Talks are expected to contribute significantly to the upcoming COP29, where African nations will present unified and strategic positions on climate action. The state minister's opening remarks have set a constructive tone for discussions that will seek to address the intricate linkages between climate change and Africa's transformative development trajectories.