A HISTORIC moment unfolded on Friday as the COP28 climate change summit in Dubai witnessed the adoption of the Loss and Damage Fund, triggering a wave of scepticism among African civil society groups and climate leaders. Critics argue that despite facing harsh climate realities, African countries are the least contributors to emissions, with the global North shouldering over 90 percent of carbon emissions.
Director of the Global Initiative for Food Security & Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), Mike Terungwa, expressed doubts about the significance of the pledges, deeming them as mere political statements rather than tangible financial commitments.
‘The pledges sound good but they are political statements and not real money,’ he said adding, ‘It would be great if specific time frames could be included. The pledges should not turn into emission or pollution permits from the countries pledging.’
Environmental rights activist Mathews Malata predicted challenging times ahead, stating that while the fund’s initiation is a positive step, the pledges must be substantial and targeted towards the most vulnerable countries. He cautioned against false and temporary solutions, stressing the importance of just and sustainable measures, considering the inadequacy of pledged amounts to cover recovery and disaster risk reduction financing gaps.
Founder and director of Power Shift Africa, Mohamed Adow, voiced disappointment in the funding pledges, describing them as a mere ‘drop in the ocean.’ Adow found the levels announced by US President Joe Biden and climate envoy John Kerry embarrassing, emphasizing the need for more substantial commitments.
The Loss and Damage Fund, intended to assist developing countries vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, will be administered by the World Bank as its interim host. As the international community grapples with the complexities of climate finance, the scepticism expressed by African civil society groups highlights the challenges in achieving meaningful and impactful solutions.