In early October this year, the African Climate Justice Collective (ACJC) convened the first in-person African People’s Counter COP (APCC) in Saly, Senegal, following three years of virtual gatherings. Over one hundred participants from diverse backgrounds—including grassroots communities, women, youth, and civil society organizations—came together under the theme “Africa United Against Systematic Oppression and Climate Injustice.”
The APCC serves as a critical platform highlighting the exclusion of African voices from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of Parties (UNFCCC COP). As Global North states and corporations have increasingly dominated the COP, the APCC aims to challenge this narrative and elevate the stories of those most affected by climate change across the continent.
Key Themes and Demands
Participants shared firsthand accounts of the climate crisis, detailing the devastating impacts of droughts, floods, and resource exploitation. The APCC focused on several key themes that underscore the urgency of addressing climate injustices:
Food Sovereignty: Emphasizing the need for agroecological practices and local management of resources, particularly for women in rural areas.
Just Transitions: Advocating for a fair and equitable phase-out of fossil fuels while promoting renewable energy and green industrialization.
Zero Waste Systems: Encouraging decentralized waste management to mitigate methane emissions and promote sustainable practices.
Climate Finance: Calling for a financial architecture that supports adaptation and mitigation efforts, ensuring vulnerable communities have access to necessary funds.
A Unified Call to Action
As the world prepares for COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the APCC stands firm in its demands, which include:
Climate Justice Now: Urging Global North nations to lead in cutting emissions and addressing the climate debt owed to the Global South.
End Fossil Fuel Extractions: Immediate cessation of fossil fuel activities across Africa, prioritizing sustainable energy practices.
Migration and Climate-Induced Displacement: Addressing the plight of climate refugees and ensuring communities can adapt to changing environments.
Climate Debt and Reparations: Demanding reparations for the historical exploitation and environmental degradation faced by African nations.
The Path Forward
The APCC concluded with a strong affirmation of African resilience and the importance of grassroots movements in combating climate injustices. Participants emphasized the need for community-led initiatives and the incorporation of traditional knowledge in decision-making processes.
The declaration from the APCC is not merely a statement; it is a rallying cry for action, solidarity, and justice. As stakeholders in natural resource governance, it is imperative that we amplify these voices and ensure that African communities are at the forefront of climate action.
In solidarity with the African People’s Climate Justice Declaration, we invite our readers and partners to engage with these demands, advocate for equitable policies, and support initiatives that uplift the voices of those most affected by the climate crisis. Together, we can work towards a sustainable and just future for Africa and the world.