Muchanga: Our agricultural systems are not designed to withstand green transition

The importance of transitioning towards a green economy and sustainable development was underscored by Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry at the African Union Commission, during an interview at the annual Hamburg Sustainability Conference. Muchanga stressed the urgency for humanity to embrace green practices, reduce consumption, and mitigate carbon emissions for a sustainable future. He highlighted the pressing need for Africa to adapt to climate change, citing challenges faced by African agricultural and energy systems due to climate variability. Muchanga emphasized that Africa needs to prioritize both climate action and economic development to retain its population and foster prosperity across the continent. He discussed the importance of human capital development, climate financing, and proper accounting of carbon assets to promote a green transition effectively. Addressing the issue of critical minerals, Muchanga advocated for value addition at the source to benefit both Africa and the global market. The Commissioner also provided insights on the progress of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which he facilitated until 2021. He highlighted the need for intra-African trade measurement and emphasized the significance of policy harmonization to enhance Africa's voice in global economic forums. Muchanga expressed confidence in the continued success of the economic integration initiatives under the African Union, such as the establishment of the African Monetary Institute and the roadmap towards a single African currency by 2034. The interview encapsulated Muchanga's dedication to driving economic growth and sustainability across Africa, as well as his optimism for the future leadership to build upon the achievements made under his tenure.