Ethiopia has been a leader in climate action, with a longstanding commitment to green growth. Since the adoption of the Climate Resilient Green Economy Policy and Strategy in 2011, the nation has aimed to build a carbon-free economy by 2030. Efforts include developing renewable energy sources such as hydropower, wind farms, solar energy, and geothermal resources.
Remarkably, Ethiopia recently set a new record by planting over 700 million trees in a single day. Africa is particularly vulnerable to climate change, experiencing warming rates faster than the global average. Between 1991 and 2023, the continent warmed by approximately +0.3°C per decade, with North Africa warming even more rapidly at +0.4°C.
The region has also faced 1,865 climate-related disasters since 1984, resulting in $53 billion in direct losses and affecting over 700 million people. Climate change has severely impacted African agriculture, leading to a 34% decline in productivity since 1961. By 2050, yields for key crops like millet, maize, wheat, and rice are projected to fall by approximately 15%.
The economic toll is significant, with African countries losing 2–5% of GDP annually due to climate extremes. The estimated annual adaptation cost is $30-$50 billion over the next decade.
Ethiopia’s climate leadership and initiatives
ACS2 is a critical milestone on the road to COP30. Hosted by the Government of Ethiopia and the AU, the summit will serve as a platform for unifying Africa’s voice and leadership in global climate action. The event aims to advance African-led climate solutions, foster fair partnerships, and catalyze significant financial and political commitments.
Climate leaders at ACS2 will champion new global financing systems and accelerate climate adaptation, mitigation, and green growth. The summit will also focus on empowering communities, especially youth and indigenous groups, and fostering multilateral cooperation. Under the theme “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development,” ACS2 will gather leaders, policymakers, financiers, youth, innovators, academics, civil society, and the media.
The summit will spotlight key areas for driving Africa towards a green and climate-resilient future, including climate finance, nature-based solutions, renewable energy, sustainable food systems, green cities, e-mobility, and indigenous knowledge. The summit aims to produce a unified African position for COP30, forge new partnerships, showcase innovative solutions, and secure commitments to climate finance. These efforts will culminate in the Addis Ababa Declaration on Climate Change.
By hosting ACS2, Ethiopia and the AU hope to position Africa not only as a region facing significant climate impacts but also as a powerhouse of global climate solutions. The summit is poised to catalyze bold commitments, transformative partnerships, and innovative solutions to address Africa’s most pressing climate challenges.