African Leaders Urged to Unite on Ecology, Prioritize Continent over Profit ahead of COP30

“African culture has always shown a symbiotic way of life, meaning that we care for what cares for us, and that's what we need to do,” she said during the discussion that was held at the Pauline Sisters’ premises in the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi (ADN).

She urged the leaders who will be negotiating on behalf of the African continent at COP30 to draw inspiration from the founding fathers of Pan-Africanism, such as Kwame Nkrumah, Thomas Sankara, and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, who, she said, embodied the true meaning of Pan-Africanism.

The Kenyan environmental activist, who is also an analyst on inclusive development, found it regrettable that a continent where people once only pruned tree branches are now cutting them down for profit.

“It was a simpler way of trying to live with nature, but then the capitalistic mindset came in, and now we are cutting down trees so that we can get profit. It's not right,” Ms. Wambua said during the October 1 panel discussion.

Meanwhile, Michael Kakande, an environment campaigner from Uganda, emphasized that Africa must strengthen its collective voice in climate negotiations.

“I can gladly say that Africa has tried to come together to form a common position. However, when we get to the frontlines, we often find ourselves divided,” said Kakande.

The founder and chairperson of Resilient40, a Uganda-based organization empowering youth to demand climate and ecological accountability, attributed the division to tensions between economic interests and the urgent call for sustainable alternatives.

He said, "Many forces are at play in our countries—some seeking to extract fossil fuels, while others push for a transition away from them." 

Mr. Kakande lamented what he described as the sidelining of African voices in international negotiations, noting that at several COP forums the voices of African leaders have been “systematically kicked out.” 

He pointed out that such exclusions reflect deeper systemic designs that disadvantage the continent, even as African leaders continue to call for action.

“We have been to several COPs now. Every time we've been pushing for an African agenda, but every time we find it, that has been part of the problem. But of course, Africa has been pushing for systematic changes.”

The environmental activist emphasized that despite the challenges, ordinary Africans have a role to play, saying, “Let me remind us: we are all leaders. Whenever we have an opportunity to speak up, we should speak up.”

“If you have an opportunity to take action, do it. If you have an opportunity to tell a story, tell it,” he said, and added, “Every action matters. Small actions matter. Speak up and act when you can, because we are leaders,” he said during the October 1 panel discussion via a virtual link from Uganda.

For Flavian Wanzala, a fossil-free campaigner who works at the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation, Franciscan Africa (JPIC-FA), Africa is capable of solving the ecological challenges it encounters.

(Story continues below)

“Africa is very rich. Let’s put Africa first. No matter what you are doing, no matter the policies you are making, put the African spirit in you. Speak as an African,” she stated.

Ms. Wanzala encouraged those entrusted with political leadership on the continent to consult indigenous communities while making decisions on ecological issues. 

She said, “Before our leaders make decisions, before drafting policies or negotiations, let’s first consult local communities. Let’s understand them. Let’s work with them in mind when making decisions,” he said.

 

“If we consider them first, our resources will be better protected and justice will prevail. That ensures a just transition. Otherwise, communities suffer in the name of profit and “development,” said Ms. Wanzala.

To the African leaders who will have the opportunity of representing their countries at the COP30, which is scheduled to take place from November 10 to 21, the Kenyan environmental activist said, “I would urge them to invest in renewable energy; don’t limit it—let it flow.”

“First of all, let’s put environmental issues in our hearts at an individual level. Whatever you are doing and what I am doing may be different, but we share one goal: ensuring environmental justice so that future generations have access to the brilliant and amazing environment that God gave us,” she said.