Climate change threatens humanity, Africa must not bear the burden – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Akufo-Addo has called on world leaders to take urgent action to combat the devastating effects of climate change, particularly in Africa.

During his address at the UN General Assembly in New York, Akufo-Addo emphasized that although Africa contributes minimally to global emissions, it disproportionately suffers from the consequences of climate change, such as floods and desertification.

He asserted that addressing climate change is not merely an option but a pressing necessity that demands collective action.

“Africa cannot continue to bear the burden of a crisis it did not create,” he stated, highlighting the need for “fairness, not charity.”

The President also underscored the importance of climate justice, advocating for a system that benefits everyone rather than just a privileged few.

“At the heart of today’s crisis is the climate emergency which threatens humanity’s very existence. Africa, while contributing the least to global emissions, bears the heaviest burden. From floods to desertification, we are already experiencing its devastating effects. Despite the promises, the vulnerable remain abandoned.

“We are told to adapt and be resilient, but how does one adapt to famine or build resilience when farmers cannot predict the seasons? Africa cannot continue to pay for a crisis she did not create. We demand fairness, not charity. Climate justice requires a system that works for everyone, not the privileged few.

In his address, Akufo-Addo noted that over 700 million people, representing 8.57% of the world’s population, still live in extreme poverty.

He emphasised that the vast gap between the rich and poor should be a pressing concern for world leaders.

“As president, the vast gap between the rich and poor should be sustained act on our conscience. Over 700 million people representing 8.57% of the world’s population still live in extreme poverty,” he stated.

citinewsroom