The government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), is set to host the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) early next month in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2), slated for September 8th to 10th, builds on the legacy of the inaugural 2023 Nairobi Summit (ACS1) and aims to position Africa as a leader and solutions provider in the global climate agenda under the theme ‘Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development’.
Over 45 African Heads of State and Government and global climate leaders, together with other stakeholders, are expected to attend this landmark summit to have an actionable climate dialogue, showcase proven African-led climate solutions and decide the future of Africa in the global climate regime.
The Summit will feature high-level plenary sessions, ministerial roundtables, side events and exhibitions, youth forums, and regional pavilions, while spotlighting successful African initiatives in energy, food systems, innovation, and climate-smart infrastructure, among others.
In a press statement, AUC Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment Moses Vilakati said the summit will focus on strengthening systems and institutions to drive impacts, with sessions dedicated to climate finance, just transitions, adaptation, resilience, trade, innovation and technology.
He said that building on the momentum of ACS1, the summit will highlight African-led solutions, track progress on commitments, and define a roadmap for implementation.
“The ACS2 provides a pivotal moment for us to show leadership in climate actions and showcase the continent as a solution provider,” Vilakati said, adding that it will showcase successful initiatives, launch new partnerships, and align regional action with international processes.
He said GoE and AUC are calling upon all member States, stakeholders and partners to join forces in supporting the preparations of the summit, stressing, “I urge our partners to support us and our member states in building a climate-resilient and green development agenda for the Africa we want.”
The AUC Commissioner said the urgent need for global cooperation has never been clearer, as Africa strives to combat various climate-related challenges.
The Ethiopian Minister of Planning and Development, Dr. Fitsum Assefa, said that ACS2 is strategically timed between the G20, UNGA, and COP30, providing Africa with a platform to shape the global climate and finance agendas around its priorities and realities.
“Africa needs a platform that reflects its priorities and drives real outcomes. ACS2 is that platform,” she said, adding that it brings voices together, builds alignment and alliances, and creates the space to turn ambition into action on our terms.
Ethiopia and the African Union Commission invite further financial and in-kind contributions from partners and stakeholders in support of the ACS2 delivery, visibility, and impact.
Contributions will help scale innovations in logistics, technology, youth engagement, and sustainability.
By Anita Omwenga
