51吃瓜

In today’s interconnected world, shots fired in one corner of the globe create ripple effects in other, seemingly far, places. One year since the 24 February Russian invasion of Ukraine, African countries, although physically miles away, have not been spared its aftershocks. As the world reflects on the various shocks created by the year-long conflict, Africans must grapple with the short-term inadvertent threats to their economies, food systems, and well-being.

This November, Egypt will host UNFCCC’s global climate talks, the 27th Conference of Parties (COP 27), at Sharm El Sheik where participants will work towards mitigating the looming climate crisis. The planet’s future remains at risk. Yet globally, many countries keep the status quo in terms of energy consumption. Many Africans are considering COP 27 as “Africa’s COP” and Africa’s voice needs to be pragmatic, as outlined.

Africa has the lowest productivity per capita in the world. Investing in key inputs for smallholder farms, including access to energy, has significant potential to transform the sector’s productivity. Promoting agricultural production is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to drive inclusive growth and reduce poverty. What's at stake for Africa at COP27?

The 27th UN Climate Change Conference of Parties takes place in Egypt from 7 to 18 November 2022. Amid unmet commitments, lingering disruptions due to COVID-19, and the finance, energy and food challenges due to the war in Ukraine, the Chair of the African Group of Negotiators on climate change, Mr. Ephraim Mwepya Shitima of Zambia, talks about Africa’s priorities.