President Akufo-Addo has admonished world leaders to remain committed to initiating measures aimed at addressing the devastating effects of climate change, particularly in Africa.
The West African leader made the call while addressing the UN General Assembly in New York.
He stated that although Africa contributes minimally to global emissions, it disproportionately suffers from the consequences of climate change, such as floods and desertification.
To him, addressing climate change is not merely an option but a pressing necessity that demands collective action.
“Africa cannot continue to bear the burden of a crisis it did not create,” he stated, highlighting the need for “fairness, not charity.”
“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. Despite the promises, the vulnerable remain abandoned.
“We are told to adapt and be resilient, but how does one adapt to famine or build resilience when farmers cannot predict the seasons? Africa cannot continue to pay for a crisis she did not create. We demand fairness, not charity. Climate justice requires a system that works for everyone, not the privileged few.
The President added that over 700 million people, representing 8.57% of the world’s population, still live in extreme poverty, stressing the need for the gap to be closed.
“As president, the vast gap between the rich and poor should be sustained as an as an act of our conscience. Over 700 million people, representing 8.57% of the world’s population, still live in extreme poverty,” he said.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana