HBCU Green Fund's Africa Network Urges Action on Climate Financing at COP29 in Azerbaijan

HBCU Green Fund's Africa Network Calls for Action at COP29

The HBCU Green Fund's Africa Network, representing young activists from ten African nations, concluded COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, with a strong message for global leaders. Through a press conference, they highlighted their contributions to key negotiations and underscored the urgent need for equitable climate financing and adaptation strategies, pushing for real change beyond mere empty promises.

The Network's efforts during COP29, often dubbed the “Finance COP,” emphasized the pressing financial challenges faced by developing nations. Kassim Hussein, representing Ghana’s Action for Climate Empowerment, noted a step forward in negotiations, stating, “Our discussions led to the inclusion of climate finance text that was absent from previous COPs, setting a foundation for critical dialogues.” Enhanced collaboration allowed these young activists to elevate their voices in discussions that directly impact their communities, spotlighting the necessity for financial aid to combat climate change effects.

A key achievement was the formation of a blueprint for the Loss and Damage Fund, with commitments from wealthier countries to disburse funding by 2025 — a crucial step for communities grappling with irrevocable climate disruptions. Denise Ayebare, the founder of Better Life International in Uganda, voiced a critical perspective, asserting, “The colonial-based financial structures perpetuate inequalities that harm grassroots individuals.” She highlighted the necessity for grants instead of loans, appealing for support that empowers rather than confines African countries.

Highlighting the misrepresentation of Africa in global emissions, Abubukar Kromah from the Climate Activists Association of Liberia remarked, “We contribute less than four percent of global emissions yet face the most severe consequences. We deserve representation at the decision-making level.” The conference also addressed the integration of gender considerations into climate policy, a milestone achieved through advocacy efforts by Tafadzwa Kurotwi from Zimbabwe’s Emerald Climate Hub. She expressed optimism regarding climate finance being directed toward projects empowering women and supporting gender equality in the climate discourse.

In addition to these significant discussions, the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG) became a focal point, as activists sought a more ambitious financial target to overhaul the inadequate $100 billion annual benchmark. However, many developing nations expressed concern over the potential outcomes, as Ayebare pointed out the discrepancies in discussions regarding extensive funding figures that vulnerable communities cannot realistically harness.

As COP29 concluded, the emphasis shifted towards the next summit in Brazil, with activists such as Kassim Hussein reiterating the challenges in securing necessary funding. He stressed long-term strategies aimed at dismantling bureaucratic barriers to facilitate effective climate action. Hussein also called on global organizations to bolster HBCU Green Fund’s initiatives in informing and uplifting disadvantaged communities through education and capacity-building programs.

As these activists rallied for change at COP29, they acknowledged that true climate justice could not be realized without addressing broader social and gender justice issues. Tafadzwa Kurotwi encapsulated the sentiment for continued advocacy, declaring, “We need action, not just rhetoric. Our future hinges on immediate, concrete measures.” Indeed, the clarion call from the HBCU Green Fund’s Africa Network reflects a pivotal moment in the global fight against climate change — one that emphasizes the need for urgent and equitable solutions against a backdrop of historical injustices.

Founded by Felicia Davis, a recognized climate leader, and steered by managing director Illai Kenney, HBCU Green Fund operates with a mission to collaborate with historically black colleges and surrounding communities to advance environmental justice. They’re actively promoting grassroots initiatives both in the U.S. and Africa, including funding for local projects, student-led expeditions, and pre-COP conferences designed to equip activists with essential advocacy tools.