Citizens or the climate crisis – what will Africa choose?
The EU and the US were clear that coal was the worst opponent at COP26 in Glasgow the previous year.
After Moscow declared war on Ukraine and Western nations responded with sanctions, everything changed.
In the first half of 2022, coal sales from South Africa to Europe increased eight times more than they did in the same period previous year.
The Green Party first joined a partnership that intended to phase out coal by 2030 and nuclear energy by the end of 2022.
A few of Africa’s uranium producers also received a boost, as well as Germany’s nuclear energy sector.
Prior to the Ukraine War, oil prices were rising, but the War accelerated their rise.
Because the higher prices had an effect on goods and services all across the world, not just on petroleum, inflation grew as a result of the higher prices.
Africa will be hardest hit by the negative repercussions.
African nations should capitalise on their advantages while showcasing a value proposition that goes beyond the provision of raw minerals.
A collective approach to engaging the world based on enlightened self-interest is a smart place to start for African nations at COP27.
It must be the intention to set the region’s own course.
Africa’s involvement in carbon sinks and value chains for raw materials will be a bitter but unavoidable pill to chew.
It will, however, remove entrance barriers and pave the way for slow but steady growth and confidence.
Africa is not unique in this regard as investors and capital look around for a home.
African leaders cannot attend COP27 with a business-as-usual attitude.
It must be the intention to set the region’s own course.
Thoughts?
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