The COP29 summit in Azerbaijan brought another disappointing chapter in the global climate fight, with developed nations failing to commit to raising the $1 trillion needed to combat global warming. This negligence leaves African nations, some of the world’s lowest emitters, disproportionately vulnerable to climate change. Prolonged droughts, devastating floods, and economic losses have become the norm across the continent. Kenya, for instance, has witnessed multi-million-shilling road projects swept away by floods, with no compensation or accountability forthcoming.
Amid this betrayal by developed nations, Africa must diversify its approach to climate financing and solutions. Strengthened collaboration with China presents a vital opportunity for the continent to combat the adverse effects of climate change.
Lessons from China’s Green Transformation
China’s progress in tackling climate change is an exemplary case for African countries. Over the past decade, China has transitioned from a pollution-heavy economy to a global leader in green energy and infrastructure. During a recent visit to Beijing, it was evident that the city’s air quality had significantly improved since 2019, reflecting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and stringent environmental policies.
Cities like Xiamen showcase China’s dedication to clean energy, where eight out of every 10 vehicles are electric. Meanwhile, the country invests billions in greening initiatives, such as transforming the Gobi and Kubuqi deserts into hubs of ecological restoration and sustainable agriculture.
China’s leadership in clean technologies, including solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles, is a testament to what government and citizen collaboration can achieve. By 2030, non-fossil fuels are expected to account for 25% of China’s energy mix, driven by record growth in solar and wind energy.
Leveraging FOCAC and the BRI
The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) offer platforms for Africa to learn from and collaborate with China. Through these partnerships, African nations can access funding and technology for green infrastructure projects, electric vehicle deployment, and sustainable agricultural practices.
China’s expertise in agricultural mechanization, for instance, could enhance food security in Africa while reducing the carbon footprint of farming practices. At the same time, African leaders must push companies to disclose their environmental policies and commit to gradually reducing emissions.
Building a Collaborative Approach
China’s success underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between governments and citizens. African nations must enact stricter laws to hold polluters accountable while investing in public transportation and renewable energy infrastructure.
Kenya, for example, should incentivize the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, drawing from China’s success in building an ecosystem that supports green innovation. Stricter emission standards, coupled with government-backed initiatives, could accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Advocacy at the Global Stage
At the ninth FOCAC summit in Beijing, China joined African nations in condemning protectionist measures, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which undermines developing countries’ right to sustainable development. The summit highlighted the need for predictable financial support and technology transfer to developing nations.
Moving Beyond COP Disappointments
Africa cannot afford to wait for developed countries to honor their commitments. Instead, the continent must take bold steps to protect its future by collaborating with willing partners like China. Through shared expertise, sustainable financing, and stricter policies, African nations can mitigate the devastating effects of climate change while pursuing economic growth.
The time for lamentation is over. With China as an ally, Africa can forge a resilient path toward a sustainable future, proving that collaboration, innovation, and determination can overcome even the greatest global challenges.
