Greenpeace Africa on Saturday, November 16, 2024, delivered a petition signed by 10,000 people to the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) at COP29.
The petition, presented to AGN Chairman, Ali Mohamed, outlines key demands for an ambitious climate finance package, a renewable energy future and climate justice for Africa.
Murtala Touray, Programme Director at Greenpeace Africa, said: “This petition represents the voices of thousands of Africans who are already experiencing the devastating impacts of climate change. We are calling on our negotiators to stand firm in demanding that fossil fuel companies pay their fair share for the damage they’ve caused to our communities and environment.”
The petition outlines key demands, including investments in renewable energy solutions, an immediate end to new fossil fuel projects, and ensuring climate finance reaches vulnerable communities. It also calls for concrete mechanisms to make polluters pay and the rejection of false solutions like carbon offsetting.
Fred Njehu, Pan-African Political Strategist for Greenpeace Africa, said: “Africa’s future must be renewable, not fossil-fueled. Our climate negotiators have a historic opportunity at COP29 to champion real sustainable solutions that will protect our communities and ecosystems. We need bold leadership that prioritises people over profits and ensures a just transition to renewable energy systems across the continent.”
While accepting the document, Ambassador Ali Mohamed, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators, said: “We are all on the same page. We are going to support the position of the African CSOs and communities in our negotiations. I’m looking forward to working with you and responding to the challenges our different communities face. We look forward to a successful COP outcome.”
The petition handover, according to Greenpeace, comes at a crucial time as African nations seek to secure meaningful commitments for climate action and financial support under a new collective and quantified climate goal at COP29. Scientific Projections show that 118 million Africans could be at risk from climate-related disasters by 2030.
Greenpeace Africa climate campaigners and members of the Climate Justice Movement witnessed the handover ceremony.
