Evaluating International Climate Agreements in Africa

The 2015 Paris Agreement marked a turning point in international climate governance, as nations worldwide pledged to combat climate change through concerted efforts.

For Africa, a continent vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change, the promises of global climate accords hold immense significance. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events threaten lives, livelihoods, and economies across the region. However, while international climate agreements provide a framework for action, the real challenge lies in implementation—particularly in Africa, where socioeconomic disparities, policy limitations, and inadequate funding create significant hurdles.

While these agreements are ambitious and critical, their effectiveness remains under scrutiny, especially when evaluated through the lens of regional disparities and policy implementation gaps. In the fight against climate change, international agreements such as the Paris Agreement have become critical frameworks for global cooperation. 

Persistent Gaps in Policy and Implementation 

Africa contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions but suffers disproportionately from climate change. The consequences of delayed action or ineffective policy implementation cost a changing rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts threaten food security for millions. In countries like Somalia, recurrent droughts have led to widespread famine.

Extreme weather events result in billions of dollars in damages annually. Cyclone Idai (2019) caused over $2 billion in losses across Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. Even, rising temperatures exacerbate vector-borne diseases like malaria, with significant public health implications.

Despite pledges, the $100 billion annual commitment by developed nations under the Paris Agreement remains unmet. Africa requires an estimated $2.8 trillion by 2030 to meet its climate goals, but current funding levels fall far short. The lack of alignment between national policies and international commitments often stalls progress. 

For instance, while Nigeria is committed to net-zero by 2060, it continues to invest heavily in fossil fuels, creating a policy contradiction. Advanced technologies for clean energy and carbon capture are often inaccessible to African nations due to high costs and restrictive intellectual property laws. And also limited access to climate data and monitoring tools undermines the ability to track progress and adjust strategies effectively.

Weak governance and institutional capacity hinder the implementation of climate policies. Illegal logging and mining continue to threaten forest conservation efforts. The Congo Basin, a critical carbon sink, faces ongoing deforestation driven by agriculture and logging. Despite international commitments, enforcement mechanisms remain weak, highlighting the gap between pledges and action.

The Promise of International Climate Agreements 

Global climate agreements aim to unify countries in addressing climate change. The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015, set out to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. The Kyoto Protocol and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) laid the foundation for binding and non-binding commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

African countries have submitted ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), emphasizing renewable energy projects, reforestation, and climate-resilient agriculture. Kenya has pledged to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030, while Morocco’s Noor Solar Project is among the world’s largest concentrated solar plants. 

Africa is emerging as a renewable energy hub, driven by solar and wind projects. The South African Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) is a notable success, attracting billions in investment. South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET-IP) is a model for aligning policy with international agreements.   

Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex exemplifies how climate agreements can spur transformative projects. With international support and strong policy backing, Morocco has emerged as a leader in renewable energy, aiming to generate 52% of its electricity from renewables by 2030.

International agreements have facilitated financial flows through mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Africa has seen increased funding for clean energy, adaptation measures, and capacity building, especially in nations like South Africa and Rwanda.

Strengthening Climate Action in Africa  

Africa needs tailored financing solutions. Blended finance models, green bonds, and partnerships with private investors can bridge the funding gap. The African Development Bank's Desert to Power initiative is an excellent example of leveraging innovative funding for renewable energy projects.

Regional bodies like the African Union and ECOWAS should play a more proactive role in coordinating and enforcing climate policies across member states. Investing in human capital, research institutions, and technological innovation is essential. African universities and think tanks should lead climate research and policy development.

Regular monitoring, transparent reporting, and robust enforcement frameworks can ensure that commitments translate into action. Partnerships with international organizations can support these efforts. Women, indigenous communities and youths must be central to climate strategies. Programs like Kenya’s Green Belt Movement demonstrate the transformative potential of inclusive, community-driven approaches.

For global climate agreements to succeed, equity must be attained, ensuring that Africa and other vulnerable regions are equipped to lead in the fight against climate change. Only through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment can the promises of these accords become a reality.

Conclusion 

International climate agreements hold immense potential but must evolve to address the glaring gaps in implementation. By fostering financial, technological, and policy support, the world can empower Africa to lead in building a climate-resilient future. 

By addressing funding gaps, building institutional capacity, and fostering inclusive participation, Africa can turn the tide on climate change and set an example of resilience and innovation for the world. The time to act is now—before the cost of inaction becomes insurmountable. 

Edited by: Muhammad Abdullahi Ibrahim