For the fourth year in a row, I was privileged to join the UNFCCC, annual climate change conference (COP 29), both as part of the technical delegation for the government of Uganda and as a keen advocate of advancing climate science using science diplomacy.
As with previous COP events, there were several highlights ranging from the negotiation rooms, side events and advocacy interests.
The withdrawal of Argentina's delegation just three days into COP29 was not only a major headline but served as an important reminder of the intricate links between domestic politics in individual member states and global agendas. More articles on Argenrtina's unceremonial withdrawal was published in several news outlets inclduing sky news, CNN, Guardian.
Similarly, another critical question was the potential uncertainties around climate policy priorities for the incoming US administration, especially given the major policy differences within the local political landscape.
In her remarks during a press event, the US Energy Secretary, Sec. Jennifer Granholm said, "Clean energy transition is happening no matter what happens in the White House. The global community will step up and fill any void in leadership". The tonne offered reassurance to the global climate community on the role everyone plays in tackling climate change as a shared problem.
I also gave a key presentation on the role of data, capacity and local leadership in Africa during the African Parliamentary Session on Strengthening Africa’s Climate Leadership, Unpacking NDC’s, Climate Finance and Resilience
My presentation highlighted four key points
- Africa has the potential to provide scientific leadership on climate action
- We can leverage emerging technologies to develop sustainable climate data solutions
- Local leaders can/should champion community mobilisation on the climate agenda
- Cross-regional collaborations through thematic regional communities of practice like the CLEANAirForum can advance meaningful multilateral partnerships for climate action
The session ended with the endorsement of the COP29 joint communique to the ministers by the African parliamentary delegation.