By Tendai Guvamombe
Midrand, South Africa – The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) is setting a new course for Africa’s engagement in global climate change negotiations, following a pivotal review of its participation in COP29 held in Baku, Azerbaijan in November 2024.
A report adopted by PAP’s Permanent Committee on Monetary and Financial Affairs on July 23, 2025, during the ongoing 5th Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament, highlights the urgent need for a more proactive and influential African presence at future Conferences of Parties (COPs).
The report, read by Hon. Seleman from Gambia, emphasized that PAP’s participation in COP29 served as a crucial “eye-opener.” Key recommendations include a strengthened, visible PAP presence at COPs, including dedicated pavilions for African voices.
This would allow African partners and funders to engage directly with PAP’s priorities, moving beyond the current scenario where African representatives often find themselves learning from others’ pavilions.
Crucially, the report advocates for formalizing collaboration with key stakeholders such as the African Group of Negotiators, the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), and the African Union Commission. Such partnerships, through regular briefings, co-organized events, and joint advocacy, aim to amplify Pan-African climate priorities on the global stage.
A central tenet of the proposed roadmap is robust advocacy for increased climate financial flows to Africa, particularly from countries that have historically contributed the most to Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.
This push for climate justice aims to secure more funding for adaptation, resilience building, and loss and damage initiatives across the continent.
Looking ahead, PAP plans to establish an annual African Climate Summit. This crucial platform will convene African parliamentarians, negotiators, and stakeholders to harmonize Africa’s position and strategize effectively before major climate negotiations. This institutionalized approach is designed to ensure sustained impact and comprehensive outcomes at future COPs.
The report concludes with a powerful call for PAP to institutionalize its COP participation, addressing logistical, financial, and strategic challenges.
By doing so, the Pan-African Parliament seeks to enhance its visibility, influence, and effectiveness in international climate negotiations, championing a just, equitable, and sustainable future for Africa.
