Cop29: Unpacking the African agenda

In 143 days, representatives from over 200 countries will gather in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as Cop29. The agenda for this year's summit is taking shape under the leadership of Elnur Soltanov, the CEO of the conference. The primary focus of Cop29 is on climate finance, a critical component in facilitating collective and bold climate action. Soltanov highlighted the key points that are shaping the agenda for the upcoming summit, including the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), Article 6 on carbon markets, and the loss and damage fund. These issues are of particular importance to African countries, emphasizing the need for progress and consensus on key fronts. Soltanov expressed optimism about the progress made so far, citing the acceptance of the agenda during the Bonn Climate Conference as a significant step forward. However, challenges remain, especially in reaching ambitious and fair financial commitments to address the climate crisis. The ongoing negotiations are crucial in determining the success of Cop29 and the level of commitment from all parties involved. With the clock ticking towards the summit, the pressure is on to bridge the gaps and secure viable solutions that will benefit the planet and its inhabitants. As the countdown to Baku continues, the world waits to see if Cop29 will deliver on its promises and set the stage for meaningful climate action.