CAAF 2024: Visionary Leaders Set the Stage for Africa’s Climate Future

The Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF 2024) kicked-off with a powerful lineup of speakers who underscored the urgency and potential of climate action on the continent. Held at the Landmark Event Center in Lagos, the forum’s opening day brought together influential leaders, policymakers, and experts committed to fostering sustainable development and green growth in Africa.

Grace Oluchi Mbah: A New Era of Environmental Stewardship

Grace Oluchi Mbah, Co-founder and Executive Director of Climate Action Africa (CAA), opened the forum with an address on the pressing climate challenges facing Africa. Mbah highlighted the continent’s accelerated warming, the vulnerability of millions to rising sea levels, and the severe impact on smallholder farmers.

However, Mbah’s message was one of hope and proactive engagement. She announced the Billion Trees for Africa Initiative, a landmark project aiming to restore degraded lands and empower local communities through large-scale reforestation. In addition, she unveiled the Pan-African Green Economy Program (PAGE), in collaboration with IDEA AFRICA and the Founder Institute, aiming to nurture 5,000 green innovators across Africa by 2035.

Mbah also introduced the Pan African Climate Action Fund, a $20 million investment fund designed to support small businesses and startups driving sustainable change in energy, agriculture, circularity, and transportation sectors. “We are laying the groundwork for a sustainable future, one tree and one innovation at a time,” Mbah declared.

Mr. Markus Wauschkuhn: Sustainable Economic Development

Mr. Markus Wauschkuhn, Cluster Coordinator for the Sustainable Economic Development Cluster of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, highlighted the role of international cooperation and sustainable development initiatives. He emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in achieving climate goals.

Dr. Titilayo Oshodi: Circular Economy in Lagos

Dr. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Advisor to the Lagos State Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, discussed Lagos State’s pioneering efforts in implementing circular economy principles. She detailed initiatives aimed at reducing waste, promoting recycling, and creating sustainable urban environments.

“Lagos is committed to becoming a model city for climate resilience,” Oshodi asserted. “Our circular economy initiatives are crucial steps towards a sustainable and prosperous future.”

Ms. Helen Brume: Afrexim Bank’s Strategic Support

Representing President Professor Benedict Oramah, Ms. Helen Brume, Director of Project and Asset Based Finance at Afrexim Bank, discussed the Bank’s role in financing climate projects. She underscored the importance of innovative financial solutions to support climate initiatives across Africa.

She announced that Afrexim Bank is committed to driving sustainable projects that align with Africa’s climate objectives and is supporting youth-led startups with a focus on decarbonization and ESG. Brume stated.

Madam Rukia El Rufia: Strengthening Climate and Economic Strategies

Madam Rukia El Rufia, Special Advisor to the Nigerian Vice President on NEC and Climate Change, took the stage next. She emphasized that simply acknowledging the importance of nature is not enough. El Rufia highlighted the need to move beyond low-value carbon credits and educational barriers that hinder attracting financing for climate solutions. She stressed the importance of a strong business case alongside environmental benefits. El Rufia commended the forum’s theme, “climate-smart developments,” because it underscores the need for economic growth alongside emissions reduction.

El Rufia emphasized the crucial role of National Determined Contributions (NDCs) – national plans outlining climate action commitments. She urged collaboration across generations and highlighted successful examples from emerging economies like Mexico and Indonesia, demonstrating strong economic growth alongside reduced emissions.

She concluded by calling for increased investment in renewable energy and sustainable practices, drawing on her personal experience with drastically reduced energy bills through solar panels.

Her Excellency Madame Ramatoulaye Diallo Ndiaye: A Vision for the Great Green Wall

The forum welcomed Madame Ramatoulaye Diallo Ndiaye, the former Minister of Handicrafts, Tourism and Culture in Mali from 2014 to 2020 and currently the CEO of the Great Green Wall of Africa (GGWoA) Foundation, for the keynote address.

Ndiaye powerfully asserted Africa’s critical role in the well-being of the entire planet. She stressed Africa’s vast natural resources and potential to be a leader in building a sustainable and resilient future. Ndiaye echoed the importance of innovation but emphasized the need for well-defined projects, education, and strong partnerships.

She highlighted her career dedicated to a sustainable approach, combining traditional knowledge with modern solutions. Ndiaye pointed to the Green Wall of Africa initiative and the newly launched Green Ringwall Initiative strategy as examples of visionary leadership and strong policy driving progress.

Climate Champion Quest Winners Announced

The highlight of the event was the announcement of the winners of the Climate Champion Quest organized by STEAM Funfest. Omoniyi Praise took the first position, followed by Treasure Nwosu in second, and Alabi Abimbola in third. This competition celebrated young innovators who presented exceptional climate action solutions, showcasing the talent and potential of the next generation of African climate leaders.

Closing Remarks by Michael Oluwagbemi

Closing the session, Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director of the Presidential CNG Initiative, reflected on the day’s discussions and emphasized the importance of actionable steps and sustained commitment to climate initiatives. He gave a thought-provoking example of Lake Chad which has shrunk considerably in size. He reiterated the critical role of innovation, investment, and collaboration in driving Africa’s climate agenda forward.

The opening day of CAAF 2024 set a promising tone for the rest of the forum, with leaders from diverse sectors presenting a unified vision for Africa’s sustainable future. The discussions underscored the continent’s commitment to climate action and the collaborative efforts needed to achieve impactful change.

More photos from the events can be viewed here.

For more information and updates on CAAF 2024, visit the official CAAF website