Civil society groups representing Nigeria and Africa at the ongoing COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan under the auspices of the Africa Make Big Polluters Pay coalition has backed demande by developing countries led by G77 and Chinaz for improved and just climate finance reparation from developed countries.
They also advocated urgent technology transfer and capacity building for climate action in frontline climate crisis-impacted communities on the African continent.
The latest action by the Make Big Polluters Paycoalition is building on its long-standing demand for accountability from the governments of developed nations, corporations and other big polluters, who have played and continue to play a significant role in exacerbating the climate crisis wreaking havoc in developing countries, particularly Africa.
The United Nations had earlier affirmed that 17 of the 20 countries most threatened by climate change are located on the continent and climate change already impacts two to nine percent of their national budgets.
The coalition comprises foremost environmental rights groups on the continentz including Nigeria-based Corporate Accountability and Public Participation (CAPPA), Kebetkache Women Development and Resource Centre and Tell That Story, and Gender CC of South Africa, among others.
At the joint plenary meetings of the Baku climate talks on Monday, G77 and China Chair, Ambassador Adonia Ayebare of Uganda, emphasised the link between climate finance and climate justice, noting that the climate finance goal must be needs-based, addressing the trillions of dollars climate finance needs to meet global climate targets.
The coalition supported the move, adding that climate financing must also address adaptation, loss and damage, and mitigation.
Executive Director, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation (CAPPA) and Africa MBPP Lead Organisation, Akinbode Oluwafemi, said: “The Africa Make Big Polluters Pay Coalition stands united with G77 and China, emphasising that climate justice requires not just promises, but substantial financial commitments in the trillions from those who have historically contributed most to the crisis.
“The wealth generated by fossil fuel consumption has come at a high cost to our planet and our people. It is time for the global North to acknowledge their responsibility and invest in the future of those who are bearing the brunt of climate impacts.”
In his intervention, foremost environmental activist and Executive Director, Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Nnimmo Bassey, said: “In the face of the climate crisis, it is imperative that developed nations rise to the occasion and provide the financial reparations necessary for vulnerable communities to thrive.
“This is not merely an act of charity; it is a moral obligation to rectify the historical injustices that have led to disproportionate suffering in the global South. We must ensure that these funds are directed toward sustainable development and resilience-building initiatives that empower local populations.”
Also speaking, Africa Climate Campaign Director, Corporate Accountability, Hellen Neima, said: “Climate action must be rooted in fairness, with developed countries stepping up to support those they have historically disadvantaged.
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“We must create a global framework that prioritises the needs of the most vulnerable and ensures that their voices are heard in the decision-making processes. This is not just about financial transactions; it is about building trust and fostering partnerships that lead to meaningful change.”
Executive Director, Centre for Environmental Justice, from Togo, Kwami Kpondzo, urged the global North to acknowledge their role in the climate emergency and to take immediate action through equitable climate finance and technology transfer to those most affected.
“The time for half-measures and vague commitments has passed; we need concrete actions that translate into real benefits for communities facing the harsh realities of climate change. This includes not only funding but also the sharing of knowledge and technology that can help us adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change,” he said.
Corroborating Kpondzo’s stance, Executive Director, Fridays For Future from Uganda, Hilda Nakabuye, said: “As we gather at COP29, let us remember that climate finance is not a gift, but a debt owed to the nations and communities that have borne the brunt of environmental degradation.
“The historical emissions from developed countries have contributed significantly to the current climate crisis, and it is only just that they take responsibility for their actions. We must ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively to build resilience and foster sustainable practices in the most affected regions.”
Similarly, Chief Executive Director, Amb. Sampson Godsent Wherdaigar, noted: “The call for trillions in climate finance is not just a plea for resources; it is a demand for justice, equity, and a sustainable future for all.
“We are advocating for a paradigm shift where financial flows are directed towards empowering marginalised communities, investing in renewable energy and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This is about creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of their geographical location.”
In solidarity with G77 and China, Executive Director, Kebetkache Women Development & Resource Centre, Emem Bridget Okon, stated: “We insist that urgent technology transfer and capacity building are essential for empowering communities at the forefront of the climate crisis. It is not enough to provide financial resources; we must also ensure that these communities have the tools, knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective climate solutions. This means investing in education, innovation and infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change.”
Executive Director, Babawale Obayanju, said: “The time for accountability is now. The Africa Make Big Polluters Pay coalition demands that big polluters and governments of the global North pay their fair share to ensure that frontline communities receive the needed support to effectively combat climate change.
“We cannot afford to let the interests of corporations overshadow the urgent needs of people and the planet. It is time to hold those responsible for the climate crisis accountable and ensure that they contribute to the solutions that will protect our shared future.”
The Africa Make Big Polluters Pay coalition is committed to holding polluting corporations accountable for their significant contributions to the climate crisis. Through its innovative MBPP storytelling platform, the coalition aims to illuminate the detrimental effects of transnational corporations’ extractive practices, challenge misleading and false narratives, and advocate for sustainable alternatives.
“Our mission is to humanise the climate crisis and inspire collective action. We firmly believe that industries such as agribusiness and fossil fuels must face financial and criminal accountability for the environmental damage they cause,” the group said.
