The Civil societies on climate have organised a two-day climate campaign retreat to discuss on impacts of the climatic changes on people’s livelihoods and raise awareness about the negative impact of the climate crisis in Africa.
Themed “The Climate Justice Torch”, the event also aims to increase pressure on global leaders to advance climate justice in the context of the African common position key demands towards 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) and beyond.
In preparation to the forthcoming COP27 to the United Nations Framework Convention poised to be held by African continent in Egypt, is set to drive transformational changes scaling action for climate-vulnerable communities, and mobilising finance to develop emerging economies, move from ambition to implementation and have global emissions and protect four billion people from climate impacts by 2030.
“It is a grave injustice that impacts of climate change are felt by people in developing countries the most considering that they have contributed the least to the climate crisis,” read the statement.
Climate change has continued to cause havoc in the region and the Horn of Africa at large including Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia and South Sudan which experienced drought that has lead to loss of livelihoods.
The team has expressed fears in change of climate project extreme weather and climate events are expected to become more frequent and more severe because of climate change in the coming decades.
The climate enthusiasts intend to contribute to effective building of an African narrative on climate justice by ensuring meaningful engagement within targeted communities directly affected, inspire and empower East and Horn of African communities, youth, women and vulnerable populations, strengthen local climate justice leadership and increase pressure on global leaders to adopt ambitious climate commitments, rooted in climate justice at COP27 and beyond.
“We aim to enhance the visibility of East and Horn of Africa peoples affected communities…build sufficient political momentum within East and Horn of Africa for urgent action… consolidate organizing of key influencing blocks through strengthening mobilization of climate action driven by people,” the statement read.