The Pan-African Dialogue on how to influence the global climate agenda meeting organized by the Pan African Parliament and Pan African Climate Justice Alliance will take place in Nairobi alongside the Africa Climate Summit.
The parliamentarians across Africa will discuss the ways to affect the Pan-African Parliament’s Resolutions and Recommendations on Climate Policy and Equity in Africa and develop the framework for the Model Law on Climate Change.
The Pan-African Parliament Permanent Committee on Trades, Customs and Immigration matters Chair Senator John Bideri stated that the parliament was created to promote popular participation and representation of Africans.
“Through this forum, as parliamentarians, we will be equipped with knowledge and skills set to add impetus to previous climate action efforts as well as African voice on the global climate agenda.” Senator Bideri said.
Speaking on the behalf of Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya Hon. Moses Wetangula in the Pan-African dialogue, Hon. Martha Wangari said that it is time for everyone to understand the impacts of climate change in Africa.
”Climate change does not discriminate, it affects all of us and it burdens those who have contributed to its causes. Africa is the most popular but the most affected by the climate crisis.” Hon Wangari said.
Wangari also urged those who are more capable in this fight against climate change to lift the burden off the shoulders of the weak for the sake of equity.
On the same plea, the speaker of the Senate of Kenya Hon. Amason Jeffer Kingi affirmed to the participants that the event is another critical platform for adding impetus to the ongoing initiatives to find solutions to issues affecting African parliamentarians.
“Africa must be at the heart of every global engagement and undertaking that has a bearing on its interests and interests of the people. This begins with the Pan-African leadership to persistently leverage the leadership to advance African interests in all spheres of engagements including climate change and climate action.” The speaker said.
During the third summit, the Pan-African Members of Parliament drew recommendations and conclusions in line with promoting Climate Policy and Equity in the African Global Arena in May 2023, the Executive Director of Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) Dr Mithika Mwenda urged members to properly align climate policies and actions with development priorities and aspirations as articulated in Agenda 2063 and Sustainable Development Goals.
“We must pursue low-carbon development pathways to enhance our food, water, energy, and health security while protecting our natural resources and biodiversity.” The PACJA Executive Director said.
Dr. Mithika also urged participants in the dialogue of Pan-African members to empower communities especially women and youth to participate in decision-making and the implementation of climate solutions.
