Ruto urges reciprocal relationship between Europe and Africa in tackling climate change

President William Ruto on Tuesday called for a mutually beneficial relationship between Europe and Africa in working towards tackling climate change.

Addressing the EU parliament in Strasbourg, France, Ruto noted that historically, the global South has played a vital role in supporting the North's industrialisation by providing raw materials but now, there is a need for a more balanced and equitable global partnership.

“As we navigate a new era of global interdependence, this needs to evolve into a reciprocal relationship. A shift towards a more balanced and equitable global partnership, with the deliberate transfer of technologies and intentional flow of capital to the global South. And this also means a seat at the table to look for solutions that work for all of us, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding,” said Ruto.

According to the president, there is an opportunity to reach sustainable, equitable prosperity for all of humanity where the European Union accelerates its race to net zero, decarbonises its industry, and builds the economy of the future, while Africa provides security and stability for all Africans.

“We have the world’s biggest untapped renewable energy potential, the youngest and fastest growing workforce, and relevant natural resources and assets. Sixty per cent of the world’s best solar potential is in Africa, as well as over sixty per cent of the remaining unused arable land in the world. These assets create an inherent ability for Africa to produce green-from-the-start cost-competitive products and services and to provide some of the highest-quality carbon removal services in the world,” Ruto told the EU parliament.

He praised Africa for its quality of carbon credits and called for an investment into the sector and provision of market access.

“One of the biggest contributions the EU can make to both addressing poverty in Africa and achieving global climate goals is through its demand for green products and services, including carbon credits. Africa wants to compete. Crucially, we are not asking for further exemptions or a lower bar – but with high requirements on quality and integrity,” Ruto said.

He said the severity of climate change is acute in Africa, “a continent that, despite its minimal contribution to global emissions, finds itself at the forefront of environmental vulnerability. In Africa, with less buffers to address climate change challenges, we feel the impact more directly and acutely.”

According to Ruto, climate change has introduced a new dimension into the North versus South dynamic and is a levelling force which calls for everyone’s fair participation.