Statement on the outcome of the Africa Climate Summit (ACS2)

The Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) concluded with a clear repositioning of Africa, not as a victim of climate change, but as the source of solutions for the regional and global economy. Held in Addis Ababa, ACS2 delivered the ambition and urgency needed to build on the momentum of the inaugural summit in Nairobi and move from intention to implementation. Throughout the sessions, there was a sense of resolve and optimism. Crucially, ACS2 placed African agency at the heart of the conversation, marking a shift towards recognising the continent’s potential to play an active and constructive role in global climate action. 

In our brief published ahead of the Summit, we outlined four key priorities for African leaders, and we were encouraged to see ACS2 deliver progress across each of them: 

1. Ensuring a Just Energy Transition 

We welcome the Addis Ababa Declaration, which positions Africa as a global renewable energy hub and links climate action to the economic opportunities the continent needs. This commitment brings Africa closer to its 300 GW renewable energy capacity target and to expanding electricity access for the 623 million Africans who still live without power. 

2. Championing Adaptation Over Mitigation 

We are encouraged by the calls to fast-track adaptation efforts, including through the full operationalisation of the Loss and Damage Fund. Building resilience across communities and economies remains essential as Africa continues to bear the brunt of climate impacts. 

3. Scaling Up Climate Finance 

Leaders expressed a commitment to mobilise US$50 billion annually in catalytic finance, echoing our call to urgently scale up climate finance. A key step is the establishment of the Africa Climate Innovation Compact and the African Climate Facility, which will channel green financing towards Africa-made solutions. While this is as significant initiative, more clarity will be needed to ensure it meets the overall ambition and channels financing where it can have the most impact. 

4. Leveraging Africa’s Green Potential 

We support the renewed focus on closing the $191 billion annual land restoration gap and welcome plans to harness Africa’s natural assets for the benefit of its own people. As outlined in the 2025 Forum Report: Financing the Africa We Want, this focus, alongside the ability to leverage carbon offsets and critical minerals, represents a clear opportunity to promote sustainable economic growth. 

While critical progress has been made to define a clear roadmap for Africa, the road to repositioning the continent in the global climate economy remains long. COP30 will be a crucial next step to deliver on Africa’s ambitions, by turning these commitments into concrete action. We’ll continue to closely monitor and follow progress made throughout that journey.