The Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) opened Monday in Addis Ababa, drawing African leaders, policymakers, and global climate partners to chart a collective path toward a greener and more resilient continent.
The three-day gathering, running from September 8–10, is co-hosted by the Government of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission (AUC).
Among the leaders in attendance are Kenyan President William Ruto, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and several heads of state from across Africa.
In his opening address, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed described the summit as a “landmark gathering” that reflects Africa’s determination to pursue climate resilience and sustainable prosperity through homegrown solutions.
“Guided by Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want and rooted in the principles of multilateralism, ACS2 will highlight proven Africa-led climate solutions and the continent’s bold efforts to re-green its landscapes—laying the groundwork to effectively address the impacts of climate change and greener development,” Abiy said.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf echoed this view, noting that ACS2 builds on the momentum of the inaugural summit held in Nairobi in 2023, which amplified Africa’s unified voice on climate action.
This year’s summit, themed “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions and Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development,” is expected to focus on bridging the continent’s climate finance shortfall, scaling renewable energy, advancing reforestation and nature-based solutions, and positioning Africa ahead of COP30.
Delegates are also set to deliberate on climate justice, investment in green economies, and innovative technological responses to the climate crisis.
