Founder and director of the Nairobi-based think tank, Power Shift Africa, Mohamed Adow has hailed UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s pledge at COP29, aiming to cut the country’s emissions by 81% in the next decade.
Addressing delegates at COP29, in Baku, Azerbaijan, Starmer highlighted the UK’s commitment to a “more ambitious climate goal,”
The announcement was met with approval and caution from PSA founder Mohammed Adow, who underscored the need for a global approach to climate action.
According to him “The announcement by Prime Minister Keir Starmer shows he is keen to ensure the UK builds on the momentum created over the last few years and is determined to strengthen its climate leadership”
Adow emphasized that while the UK’s targets are commendable, climate change is a global crisis that requires international solutions. He argued that the UK must not only reduce its emissions but also assist the Global South in accelerating its transition to a low-carbon economy.
“Starmer will not be able to create a microclimate over Britain by simply announcing UK emissions reductions. Climate change is an international problem demanding international solutions,” he noted, calling COP29 a “finance COP” where tangible commitments to fund vulnerable regions are essential.
“We need a new grants-based commitment from the UK that results in cash reaching those in need. Not just numbers on spreadsheets.”
Prime Minister Starmer also pledged to honor the £11.6 billion climate finance commitment made by the previous Conservative government, promising to deliver these funds by March 2026.
Adow emphasized that while this pledge is a step forward, “The emissions reductions outlined today will help the climate equation. But it is not enough – and only answers one part of the climate puzzle.”
This year’s COP29 summit has drawn a strong African presence, with 30 African heads of state in attendance. The participation underscores the continent’s demand for increased climate financing and support for adaptation to the impacts of climate change, which disproportionately affect the Global South.
Adow stated “This COP summit is a major opportunity for Africa,”“For too long, the issue of climate finance for the Global South has been kicked down the road by the rich world. But the time has come for their bill to be paid.”
He urged African leaders to seize the moment, to advocate for collective action to hold wealthier, high-emission nations accountable.
By: Eugenia Akorfa Kumi | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
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