Accra: Nana Dr Antwi-Boasiako Amoah, Chairman of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), has outlined a people-centred vision aimed at strengthening Africa's collective voice in global climate discussions. The people-centred vision is anchored on inclusivity, transparency, collaboration, and youth engagement to guide Africa's climate negotiations over the next two years.
According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Dr. Amoah was speaking at a climate coordination meeting organised by the African Union Commission (AUC) in Accra, which brought together officials from Regional Economic Communities, climate institutions, and development partners. The African Group of Negotiators is a bloc of climate experts appointed by African governments to represent the continent's interests in international climate negotiations under the United Nations.
The group advocates fair climate financing, support for countries affected by climate impacts, and a just transition that reflects Africa's development needs. Dr Amoah emphasized the importance of inclusivity, saying: 'Inclusivity means ensuring that no African country is left behind in our internal processes, regardless of size or capacity.' He also stressed the significance of strengthening coordination with Africa's existing climate leadership structures and engaging more meaningfully with civil society and research institutions.
On transparency, the AGN Chair highlighted the necessity of openness in mobilizing and using support from partners to build trust. 'Accountability is not optional,' he stated, adding that the group would periodically share information on the support received by the AGN to ensure member states and partners are fully aware of how resources are being used.
Nana Dr Amoah, who is also a Director in charge of Climate Vulnerability and Adaptation at the Climate Change Department of the Environmental Protection Authority, noted that collaboration was critical as Africa confronted climate challenges affecting livelihoods, development, and security. He stressed the importance of coordinated discussions to ensure Africa speaks clearly and consistently across all international platforms.
Key areas discussed at the meeting included climate impacts on vulnerable communities, support for countries experiencing climate-related losses, energy transitions, forest protection, access to climate funding, and the links between climate change, peace, and security. Touching on youth engagement, Nana Dr Amoah described young people as central to Africa's climate future, emphasizing the AGN's commitment to initiatives that prepare young Africans to become the next generation of climate negotiators and leaders.
On governance, Nana Dr Amoah recalled the adoption of a governance framework by African negotiators at COP28 to improve how the AGN operated. He assured that Ghana's chairmanship would continue the institutional reforms started by previous AGN leaders, guided by openness, inclusivity, and mutual respect.
He expressed confidence in the achievements of alignment by African negotiators in their workplans despite the increasing demands on time and resources. 'With patience and cooperation, we can strengthen Africa's position and deliver outcomes that respond to the realities faced by our people,' he concluded.