Africa, facing severe climate change impacts, needs to quickly shift from talking about adaptation to taking real action. Nana Dr. Antwi-Boasiako Amoah, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN), stated this at the Pan African Coalition for Adaptation and Resilience (PACAR 2026) Workshop in Kenya. He warned that millions of vulnerable people are already suffering from events like droughts and floods, which are destroying livelihoods and damaging infrastructure.
Dr. Amoah stressed that Africa can no longer afford fragmented and underfunded responses to climate change. These shocks worsen food shortages, strain health systems, and increase financial burdens on governments already dealing with debt. Climate impacts are not just environmental issues; they are also problems of food prices, nutrition, health, and local government finances. Specific examples include prolonged droughts in northern Kenya wiping out livestock and floods in West Africa destroying homes.
This situation fits into a larger economic picture for many African nations. Developing countries often have fewer resources to cope with climate disasters. Ghana, for instance, has recently focused on economic recovery and securing international funding for development projects. However, climate-related damage can undo years of economic progress, impacting key sectors like agriculture, which is vital for jobs and exports. The call for adaptation finance is crucial as many countries struggle to recover from past economic challenges, making them more exposed to climate risks.
“We need approaches that strengthen local institutions, build early warning systems, climate-proof infrastructure, expand social protection and support communities before disasters become humanitarian crises,” Dr. Amoah said. He pointed out that much of the climate finance available is in the form of loans. This financial structure makes it harder for local institutions and communities to access the help they desperately need. He advocates for finance that is predictable, mostly grants, and directly available to those on the front lines of climate change.
Looking ahead to future global climate negotiations, such as COP31 and COP32 which will be held in Ethiopia, Dr. Amoah urged African leaders to present a strong, unified message. The goal is to ensure that Africa's adaptation priorities take centre stage in global discussions. Decisions made at these conferences must translate into real resources, functioning institutions, and accountable programmes that benefit communities directly affected by climate change. The AGN is committed to working with civil society and local communities to turn these adaptation plans into decisive actions.