The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the supreme decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Each year, COP brings together nations, stakeholders, and experts to assess progress in combating climate change, review implementation of commitments under the Convention, and negotiate new measures to address this global challenge. The 29th COP, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, marked another critical milestone in global efforts to realize the goals of the Paris Agreement and other climate frameworks.
The African Group of Negotiators Expert Support(AGNES) was deeply engaged in various activities during COP29, contributing to discussions, negotiations, and side events that underscored Africa’s leadership in climate action. Below is a roundup of key side events organized and participated in by AGNES.
Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) – Parliamentary meeting on the occasion of the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29)
During the two-day parliamentary meeting organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on November 16-17, 2024, members of the Bureau and the Executive Committee of the Network actively engaged in discussions. Three of our MPs delivered speeches on key topics under review: Honorable Mainzana Mapoko Nene, Vice President from the Democratic Republic of Congo; Issa Mardo Djabir, Executive Committee Member from Chad; and Emile Kohou Guiriéoulou, the Network President. Additionally, two of our members were selected by the IPU to moderate debate sessions. Senator Kajwang Moses Otieno from Kenya led one session, while our Secretary General, Jacqueline Amongin from Uganda, moderated another.
A highlight of the event was a meeting with Mrs. Tulia Ackson, Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania and the current IPU President. During this meeting, the MPs introduced the Network, outlined its objectives, and expressed the desire to collaborate with the IPU. They formally requested observer status and participation in future IPU activities and programs. Mrs. Ackson welcomed the initiative
From Sea to Strategy: Integrating Ocean-based Measures into Nationally Determined Contributions
At COP29, the Ocean Pavilion hosted a significant side event titled “From Sea to Strategy: Integrating Ocean-Based Measures into Nationally Determined Contributions” on November 18. The panel emphasized the critical role of ocean-based strategies in combating climate change and explored their integration into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Moderated by Beverly Mushili from the University of Zambia, discussions addressed the importance of collaborative approaches, the role of coastal communities, and the challenges faced by African nations in implementing these strategies. Financing emerged as a key theme, with insights on opportunities to channel resources for actionable ocean-based measures. The event underscored the necessity of cross-sector cooperation and innovative funding to enhance global climate efforts.
Transboundary climate, adaptation and mitigation risks in Africa: perspectives and regional cooperation
At our side event at COP29 in Azerbaijan, the panel delved into the critical topic of Transboundary Climate, Adaptation, and Mitigation Risks (TCARs), highlighting the interconnected nature of climate challenges and solutions. The discussion underscored several key takeaways. Strengthening the capacities of local institutions and governments emerged as essential, with targeted support and funding needed to enhance their ability to plan, assess, and act effectively. Integrating TCARs into National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) was another focus, with Togo’s NAP—aligned with ECOWAS regional policies—serving as an exemplary model. Robust transboundary indicators were emphasized as tools to monitor progress, attract funding, and bolster international cooperation, particularly under frameworks like the UAE-Belém Work Programme. The panel also highlighted the importance of co-benefits, such as biodiversity, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and social equity, in making TCAR projects more appealing to funders. Lastly, engaging the private sector was identified as a significant opportunity, with incentives, partnerships, and risk-sharing models seen as pathways to unlocking investments in regional solutions, including renewable energy and water management.
How investing in climate-smart agriculture is driving adaptation and long-term low-emission development: Lessons from East and Southern Africa for the entire continent
It was a day of celebration at our COP29 event as two pivotal documents for African climate action were unveiled on stage! The ‘Kenya Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan (CSAIP)’ was officially launched by Bernard Kimoro and Patrick Kibaya on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. This groundbreaking plan aligns Kenya’s agricultural sector with the realities of climate change while fostering economic growth, food security, and sustainable development. Meanwhile, African policymakers welcomed the ‘Technical Guide for the Development of Long-Term Low Emissions Strategies in Africa,’ a collaborative effort by AGNES Africa, UNFCCC Regional Centers, and partners like AICCRA.
📺 If you missed it, you can catch-up here: https://lnkd.in/e2wPt5bF
Strengthening Gender-responsive Climate Policy and Action through Vulnerability Hotspot Mapping and implementation of Gender Action Plan in Africa
Kenya, Uganda, and Botswana showcased their pioneering work in identifying climate vulnerability hotspots with a gender lens at the IGAD Pavilion. This study, conducted in collaboration with AGNES, Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA), CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform and UNDP highlights regions where women are disproportionately impacted by climate change—guiding equitable investment and policy decision-making. Access to reliable, disaggregated data remains one of the most pressing challenges in designing gender-responsive climate actions.
Can global indicators track local climate adaptation in water, food and agricultural systems?
As COP29 Azerbaijan came to a close, we hosted a thought-provoking side event on advancing the UAE-Belem Work Programme for the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA).
Bringing together experts, negotiators, and organizations, the session focused on crafting and refining adaptation indicators for vulnerable sectors such as water, food, and agriculture in Africa. Through interactive discussions, the panel explored cross-scalar linkages, gender, and social inclusion in adaptation planning.
Check out their reactions here: https://lnkd.in/eRkjAgcD