President William Ruto and French counterpart Emmanual Macron have agreed to collaborate in addressing climate change and poverty. The announcement came during the ‘How Dare You’ summit in Paris, where President Ruto emphasized the need for global cooperation regardless of individual country interests.
He stressed that the impact of climate change should not be overlooked, and that a nation’s wealth or poverty should not hinder efforts to combat its effects.
As part of the agreement, a financial compact has been established to assist the poorest countries in coping with climate change. The aim is to ensure that no country is forced to choose between eradicating poverty and preserving the planet. Additional resources will be allocated to support vulnerable and poorer nations.
President Ruto referred to Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Motley’s call for unity, urging stakeholders to set aside national interests and work together to address the global crisis.
He emphasized that the issue should not be framed as a divide between the North and South, emitters and non-emitters, or the rich and poor. Instead, it should focus on achieving a win-win outcome for all.
Looking ahead to the Africa Climate Summit scheduled for September in Nairobi, President Ruto expressed optimism that significant progress could be made.
With three months until the summit and six months until COP28, he highlighted the potential for substantial change within that timeframe. He drew inspiration from past examples, such as the crafting of the UN Charter and the establishment of the Bretton Woods Institutions in relatively short periods.
