In the build-up to the UN Summit on climate change (UNFCCC COP 15) in Copenhagen, Denmark, Africa ought to commended for being concerned with the effects of climate change on the continent and forging a common African position. 

It is true that Africa continues to pay the price of climate change despite the fact that it contributes less than 4% of the global greenhouse gas emissions. African negotiators thus demand that developed nations: Give the continent the $67 billion per annum from 2020 to cushion the continent from the adverse impacts of climate change; Provide institutional strengthening and human resource development in Africa to help address challenges brought about by climate change impacts; and allow Africa access renewable energy technologies like wind, solar, geothermal, and hydropower. 

As Africa’s leaders demand that developed nations account for their part in Africa’s climate change crisis, they must also look inward and take internal measures. It is no secret that developed nations’ affluence has made them environment-conservation conscious. African citizens on the other hand are too engrossed in fighting hunger, disease and oppressive government regimes, to think about the ‘luxury’ of climate change. 

As world leaders and experts figure out how to handle the threats posed by climate change, it is imperative that African leaders address factors that keep African populations from producing wealth.