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Africa’s Future Hangs in the Balance: UN Official Sounds Alarm on Land Degradation and Climate Change

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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a passionate plea to African leaders, the Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) Hanan Morsy warned that the continent’s future is under threat from climate change, land degradation, and desertification.

Giving her temarks at the 10th Special Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment, the UN official Hanan Morsy, emphasized that the stakes are high, with climate change already costing African economies up to 15% of GDP annually. The degradation of 65% of the continent’s arable land is also resulting in lost productivity worth $68 billion each year.

She called for urgent action, highlighting the need for fair carbon markets, balanced carbon credit initiatives, and support for member states in addressing climate change. The ECA is committed to supporting African countries through initiatives such as carbon accounting, climate finance, and strengthening the capacity of climate negotiators.

Her speech emphasized that Africa has the collective strength and innovative solutions to lead the way in sustainable development. However, it requires commitment, resources, policy, and action to protect ecosystems, empower communities, and drive sustainable development.

As the continent teeters on the brink of environmental disaster, the UN official’s words serve as a rallying cry for African leaders to transform ambition into action and build a resilient future for generations to come.

Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO

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