Emmanuel OchayiIn a call for proactive African participation in global climate discussions, Tony Elumelu, Founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation and Chairman of United Bank of Africa, emphasized the role Africa must assume in shaping the climate agenda.
Speaking at the ongoing COP28 conference in Dubai, Elumelu underscored the imperative for Africa to be heard as a crucial participant rather than a passive bystander in these conversations.
“Africa is the future, and our continent and its voices must contribute meaningfully to global climate talks,” Elumelu stated during a conversation with Former United States Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, themed ‘Taking Action Together for the Most Vulnerable on the Climate-Health Nexus.’
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Highlighting Africa’s minimal contribution to climate change compared to its significant vulnerability to its impacts, Elumelu stressed the urgent need for attention and inclusion of African perspectives.
“Addressing climate change is the paramount challenge of our era,” he affirmed, stressing that African voices should no longer be marginalized but given a platform in the discussions.
Elumelu elucidated on his foundation’s efforts, revealing how the $100 million entrepreneurship program aimed to address climate change while fostering economic growth across Africa.
He further called for partnerships to leverage the foundation’s infrastructure and support green entrepreneurs across the continent.
At the session hosted by TEF in collaboration with UBA, prominent figures including Dr. Okonjo Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization, and Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa at the United Nations Development Programme, expressed admiration for TEF’s initiatives in empowering African youths.
Okonjo Iweala acknowledged Elumelu’s contributions in empowering young entrepreneurs, emphasizing the necessity for green initiatives and inclusive growth.
Similarly, Eziakonwa praised TEF’s early commitment to investing in young Africans, highlighting the Foundation’s courage and leadership in fostering growth and development.
The collective sentiment echoed by these influential voices solidified the call for Africa’s active engagement in climate conversations, marking a pivotal moment for the continent’s role in shaping global climate policy.
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