-Summit aims to mobilize green finance, strengthen Africa’s climate leadership
ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia has been selected to host the Second Africa Climate Summit, which will take place from September 8 to 10, 2025, at the Addis International Convention Center in Addis Ababa (AICC).
Announcing the development at a press briefing, Planning and Development Minister Fitsum Assefa (PhD) said the decision, adopted at the recent African Union summit, reflects Ethiopia’s strong commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development. It also signals the growing determination of African nations to take ownership of the continent’s climate agenda.
According to the minister, the upcoming summit will serve as a platform to promote practical green solutions and policies. It will highlight nature-based and technological innovations that support Africa’s goal of re-greening its landscapes and building resilience in the face of escalating climate impacts.
She noted that the summit is expected to attract over 25,000 participants from across Africa and beyond, including policymakers, development partners, civil society organizations, and private sector leaders.
Fitsum emphasized Ethiopia’s longstanding engagement in climate action, referencing major national initiatives such as the Climate-Resilient Green Economy Strategy launched in 2011. She noted that the country has translated its climate commitments into action through major environmental campaigns and sustainable development programs that also contribute to low-carbon growth and inclusive development.
The minister also underlined ongoing efforts in climate-smart urban planning and the transport sector, including support for electric vehicles and resilient infrastructure.
Africa, she added, continues to suffer disproportionately from the effects of climate change despite contributing the least to global emissions. The summit, therefore, aims to present a united African voice, advocating for equitable climate finance and meaningful international support in line with the principles of climate justice.
Echoing the sentiment, , African Union Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner Moses Vilakati remarked that climate change is already undermining development gains across Africa. He noted that the summit presents a critical opportunity to attract new climate finance, foster innovation, and create stronger partnerships between governments, financial institutions, and non-state actors.
He further stressed that the event should serve as a turning point in championing Africa’s green development aspirations, ensuring that the continent builds climate-resilient economies while protecting future generations.
The summit is being organized in partnership with the African Union, with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Planning and Development and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs playing leading roles in its coordination.
It is to be recalled that the first Africa Climate Summit was hosted by Kenya in 2023, which concluded with the adoption of the Nairobi Declaration — a call for greater climate justice and financing for Africa.
BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 17 JUNE 2025
