William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Coordinator of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), convened African leaders yesterday, September 22, 2026. The high-level meeting occurred at the Permanent Observer Mission of the African Union to the United Nations in New York, strategically held on the margins of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly. This timing allowed for critical discussions amidst global diplomatic engagements. Discussions focused intensely on advancing Africa's common position for the upcoming 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the UNFCCC, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye. Leaders meticulously laid groundwork for COP32, which Ethiopia is set to host in 2027, emphasizing the continent's long-term climate action strategy.
Africa's Climate Imperative
Africa continues to bear a disproportionate share of the impacts of climate change despite its historically limited contribution to global emissions, according to Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission. Mr. Youssouf emphasized that Africa’s climate action must remain anchored in fundamental principles such as equity, climate justice, and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. This approach acknowledges the varied historical contributions to climate change and the differing capacities of nations to respond. President William Samoei Ruto reiterated that Africa’s development and climate priorities are inextricably linked and therefore inseparable. President Ruto called for a renewed and urgent focus on critical areas including climate finance, adaptation, resilience building, the expansion of renewable energy sources, promoting clean cooking solutions, and fostering climate-positive growth across the continent. He stressed that Africa must actively help close the widening gap between global climate pledges and the actual delivery of these commitments, a sentiment he articulated throughout the discussions.
Shifting from Pledges to Action
Africa's climate agenda requires a decisive and immediate shift from mere commitments to practical, on-the-ground implementation, according to discussions among leaders. Participants emphasized that COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, must serve as a key moment to strengthen the pathway from pledges to tangible delivery. President William Samoei Ruto reaffirmed the strategic importance of both the Nairobi and Addis Ababa Climate Declarations, noting their foundational role in guiding Africa's unified stance on climate action. These declarations provide a full framework for the continent's priorities and demands on the global stage. He clearly stated Africa's resolute message: "COP31 must strengthen the pathway from commitments to delivery, while COP32 in Addis Ababa must place African priorities, adaptation, climate finance, investment and implementation at the centre of global climate action." African Union Member States are already actively advancing practical actions, including initiatives for regional power integration, significant investments in renewable energy projects, widespread adoption of clean cooking solutions, and the implementation of climate-resilient agriculture practices designed to safeguard food security and livelihoods.
Securing Implementation Means
Africa's priorities ahead of COP31 include significantly enhanced and more accessible adaptation finance, effective support mechanisms for addressing loss and damage resulting from climate impacts, improved access to technology and full capacity building programs, and just transition arrangements that ensure no communities are left behind in the shift to a green economy. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, stated that "ambition must be matched by the means of implementation, including accessible, affordable and predictable climate finance, while avoiding the exacerbation of Africa’s debt vulnerabilities." The discussions noted that this ambition must be supported by practical means, particularly strong financial resources that do not worsen the continent's existing debt challenges, which could undermine climate efforts. The UN Climate Change Secretariat has indicated its readiness to support African countries in advancing these stated priorities from COP31 in Antalya towards COP32 in Addis Ababa, showing a commitment to collaborative global climate action.