As the second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) officially opens, attendees are streaming in from across the globe, united by a vision to play a part in solving the current climate crisis. ACS2 presents an outstanding opportunity for the African continent to accelerate its participation in impactful climate actions.

The summit arrives at a pivotal moment as the world prepares for COP30. Africa is focused on disproving its portrayal as a mere climate change victim by demonstrating its role as a global leader in developing solutions.

Through showcasing innovations like decentralized solar power, re-greened landscapes, and SME-driven job creation, the summit aims to secure fair financing and partnerships.

H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, officiated the event by pointing out that the continent’s breathtaking landscapes, which are a foundation of our existence, have been primarily safeguarded by local communities.

H.E. Abiy revealed that the continent possesses the world’s youngest population, vast arable land capable of feeding a growing continent and beyond, rich deposits of minerals essential for green technologies, and the planet’s last remaining carbon sinks.

With an attendance of over 25,000 participants and numerous heads of state, ACS2 aims to position Africa as a leader in global climate action, emphasizing African-led solutions, equitable climate finance, and sustainable development.

“We are not here to negotiate our survival; rather, we are here to design the world’s next climate economy,” said H.E. Abiy.

He highlighted the absurdity of African countries spending 2–5% of their GDP annually, with some spending up to 9%, on disaster responses. This financial burden is compounded by an energy poverty crisis that leaves over 600 million people without access to sufficient and affordable power.

H.E. Abiy challenged this reality by sharing the success of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, which commenced in 2019 and has since seen over 48 billion seedlings planted. The effects are significant: the trees cool the land, protect the soil, restore watersheds, provide food, create jobs, and grow exports.

“If we make the right choices now, Africa can industrialize to become the first continent to thrive without destroying its ecosystems, an economy we will build, power, and lead. In Ethiopia, we have seen what is possible when driven by a clear purpose. This success takes shape when determination is met with deliberate, data-driven actions. Guided by purpose, we are implementing initiatives that show the power of vision and community effort,” he added.

Despite its potential, the continent faces a constant rise in population alongside limited employment opportunities and a lack of social amenities. Reports indicate that by 2030, 118 million of Africa’s poorest people could face severe droughts, floods, and extreme heat.

These significant challenges are exacerbated by climate change impacts, making finance a key priority. Africa needs $3 trillion by 2030 to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and $1.3 trillion annually for its Sustainable Development Goals.

However, current climate finance flows are insufficient, with the continent receiving only 20% of global adaptation funds.

H.E. William Ruto, President of Kenya, lauded Ethiopia for its significant progress and for carrying on the spirit of the Nairobi Declaration, which looked ahead to a future of possibility, global collaboration, resilient prosperity, and inclusive growth for Africa.

The Kenyan president noted that despite deepening global interconnectedness, there is a growing temptation to retreat into narrow self-interest, transactional partnerships, and short-term gains. He added that commitments are too often broken, and international solidarity is dismissed as weakness—precisely when the scale of the climate crisis demands enhanced cooperation.

“Realizing our vision of Climate Positive Growth requires action on two fronts: Africa must exercise its agency decisively, urgently, and coherently; and the international system must dismantle the structural barriers that continue to hold the continent back. Both demand deeper collaboration,” said President Ruto.

The first day of ACS2 focuses on nature and technology-based solutions, with discussions revolving around decarbonization, green growth, and resilient infrastructure. These conversations will also emphasize renewable energy, sustainable food systems, e-mobility, and green cities.

According to Dr. Fitsum Assefa (PhD), the gathering is not merely a discussion on climate change but a historic moment to shape an African decade of delivery.

“This is the moment we forge a path forward where ambition becomes pipeline, and pipeline becomes investment, backed by sound policy and strong partnerships,” she said.