In his speech at the UN General Assembly in New York, Akufo-Addo highlighted that while Africa's contribution to global emissions is minimal, the continent bears a disproportionate burden from the effects of climate change, including floods and desertification.
He emphasised that tackling climate change is not just an option but an urgent necessity that requires collaborative efforts from all nations. "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.