a significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and exploitation of sources. Therefore, as many countries begin to bounce back from a year-long downturn in economic activities, environmental experts and campaigners call for a sustainable post-pandemic recovery, aimed at climate action and environmentally positive measures.
Their plea was reiterated during the 18th session of the African Ministerial Conference on Environment (AMCEN), earlier this week, when environment ministers across the region pledged mobilisation of additional resources to ensure a recovery that is green and inclusive. Representatives of continental blocs and multilateral organisations participated in the programme, which was held under the theme of “Securing people’s well-being and ensuring environmental sustainability in Africa”.
Speaking during the virtual event, the ministers called on governments across Africa to align their recovery measures with the objectives of climate action and the restoration of ecosystem services, as they encouraged countries to prioritise these goals when launching plans for social and economic resilience.
In his address, South Africa’s Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Barbara Creecy underscored the importance of climate financing and the protection of habitats, in the region’s quest for green pandemic recovery. “We can use environmental sustainability as a vehicle for post COVID-19 recovery in Africa. The continent should adopt green stimulus packages to support its journey towards low carbon growth pathways,” she noted.
The Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Inger Andersen, also participated in the event, during which she insisted that the continent’s ability to overcome pandemic shocks revolves around green investments. She called on African nations to promote investments in clean technologies, enact progressive legislation and channel environmentally positive solutions.
