During the opening of the Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, Kenyan president William Ruto emphasized the importance of shifting the focus from grievances and problems to scrutinizing ideas and unlocking solutions. The summit, which coincides with African climate week, has brought together more than 20,000 delegates, including African heads of state and government, policymakers, civil society organizations, the private sector, multilateral institutions, and youth groups. It is co-hosted by the Republic of Kenya and the African Union Commission.
Ruto highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on Africa despite the continent’s relatively small carbon footprint. He stressed the urgency of addressing loss and damage and establishing appropriate financial mechanisms for resilience.
He also emphasized the need to move away from traditional discussions that accentuate divisions between north and south, developed and developing nations, and polluters