Kenya leads Africa’s push for $1.3 trillion in Climate Finance at upcoming COP29

Speaking at the 10th Special Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN), Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized the urgent need for a new global climate finance target to replace the outdated $100 billion goal.

"Africa is calling for $1.3 trillion annually by 2030, primarily through grants and concessional loans, to prevent worsening debt in developing countries," Duale stated.

Africa is also advocating for reforms in international financial systems to better support vulnerable nations.

A top priority is increasing adaptation funding, especially for sectors such as agriculture, health, and infrastructure, where current funding levels fall far short of the estimated $400 billion required annually.

Duale further stressed the importance of establishing sustainable financing for the Loss and Damage Fund, which has received $700 million in initial pledges but urgently requires long-term solutions.

Africa is also challenging the decision to place the Santiago Network’s secretariat in Geneva, advocating instead for Nairobi as a more cost-effective and practical location.

Kenya is pushing for developed nations to increase their emissions reduction targets and provide greater support to developing countries in achieving their climate goals.

Additionally, Duale underscored the need to address Africa’s unique circumstances in dealing with climate change—an issue that has faced resistance since the Paris Agreement.

The AGN will present Africa’s unified position at the upcoming UN General Assembly, calling for active participation and engagement in COP29’s discussions and negotiations.