Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Cosato Chumi, has stressed that financial support for Africa’s climate action is a global responsibility, not a gesture of charity.
Speaking on behalf of Tanzania’s Vice President, Dr. Philip Mpango, at a side event during the Second African Heads of State and Government Climate Meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Chumi highlighted the urgent need for fair and predictable funding to help Africa address climate change.
“Africa will no longer remain on the sidelines. Our continent deserves reliable and sufficient funding to implement climate solutions, reduce the impacts of climate change, and promote sustainable development. This is not a matter of generosity,” he said.
He noted that funding shortages remain a major obstacle. Africa, which contributes only 4% of global emissions, requires US$61 billion every year for climate adaptation and mitigation. Currently, it receives less than 36% of this amount, while Sub-Saharan Africa, the region most affected by climate impacts, receives under 5%.
The discussion brought together leaders including South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr. Dion George, COP30 Special Envoy for Africa, Mr. Carlos Lopes, and Executive Director of the Loss and Damage Fund, Mr. Ibrahima Diong.
They emphasized the need to reform international financial systems to better support developing countries in their climate response.
The leaders called for a joint effort between Africa and developed nations to mobilize US$1.3 trillion annually for climate action until 2035 under the “New Collective Quantified Goal.” They also endorsed climate finance mechanisms that reflect Africa’s realities and priorities.