Fayemi Advocates for Subnational Inclusion in Climate Finance Discourse at COP28.

Fayemi Advocates for Subnational Inclusion in Climate Finance Discourse at COP28.

In a remarkable display of leadership, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi (JKF), President of the Forum of Regions of Africa (FORAF), illuminated the ongoing COP28 in Dubai by actively participating in a pivotal panel discussion. The session, titled "Raising Adaptation Finance in Africa by More than Double," was co-organized by esteemed entities like the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), Africa Adaptation Initiative (AAI), and Africa Green Climate Fund National Designated Authority Network (AFDAN), under the umbrella of the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLGA).

The discourse focused on the critical need to elevate adaptation finance in Africa, a region acutely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Dr. Fayemi emphasized the often-overlooked role of subnational governments, which directly experience the ramifications of climate change, including rising sea levels, droughts, floods, and extreme weather events.

Acknowledging the conventional focus on national governments in such fora, Dr. Fayemi praised the strategic initiative of UCLGA Africa, PACJA, AAI, and AFDAN for including diverse subnational stakeholders at #COP28. This inclusive approach ensures that the experiences and perspectives of local entities are integral to any comprehensive plan addressing the challenges posed by climate change in Africa.

Dr. Fayemi, alongside esteemed colleagues, actively contributed to the conversation, shedding light on the current state and trends of adaptation finance in Africa. The discussion delved into identifying gaps and challenges in meeting the continent's adaptation needs, with a particular emphasis on proposing actionable recommendations to enhance the quantity and quality of adaptation finance.

The impactful session concluded with a collective commitment to ensuring that adaptation finance not only increases but also effectively reaches the most vulnerable and marginalized groups and sectors in Africa. Dr. Fayemi's advocacy and collaborative efforts at COP28 underscore the importance of integrating subnational perspectives for a sustainable and resilient future.