Calling for just, well-financed climate action in Africa.

As the world prepares for the UN climate talks in Egypt from 7-18 November 2022, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), recently appointed Botswana's former Cabinet minister, Bogolo Kenewendo as UN Climate Change High-Level Champion's Special Advisor, Africa Director. For Africa Renewal, Baboki Kayawe caught up with her to unpack her latest assignment:

Africa Renewal: Climate change is an increasing threat to Africa, and your appointment comes at a time when Africa will be hosting the global climate talks (COP27) in November?

Ms. Kenewendo: Given that Africa has contributed little to global emissions so far, but it is already being disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change, mine is to push for African countries and non-State actors to be active leaders in driving and leading action towards a managed, just and financed transition.

A climate action-oriented path offers Africa the opportunity to avoid the mistakes of a totally high carbon industrialization and seize the opportunity to leapfrog into a new economy and a better form of growth that can deliver on both its development and climate goals. We are focused on highlighting opportunities that exist in this space; new industries, jobs and development.

What exactly does the role entail and what does this mean to you?

My role is about engaging with non-state actors in climate action and activating the 'ambition loop' with national governments.

It is clear that climate action needs all levels of leadership to be involved and this year it's important that we have a strong African presence in climate action discussions. Mine is to ensure that their voice is heard.

In addition, business and finance play a role in driving the ambition loop, and it is important to ensure that African economies and players take advantage of the myriad opportunities presented by the new industrial revolution.

It is hard to drive an approach of net zero without mentioning a managed, just and financed transition for Africa to industrialize.

What will success look like for you?

The climate action and climate change space is usually Western dominated and focused on reducing carbon emissions without addressing developmental issues. The hope is to strengthen the narrative of the nexus between attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate action in developing countries with a special focus on Africa.

Also, mobilizing finance for climate action projects especially in...