FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AMECEA to Address Critical Climate Issues at COP28

Solwezi, Zambia – 30th November 2023

The Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) and its President, Bishop Charles Kasonde of Solwezi, Zambia, have announced their intention to take a pivotal role in the upcoming 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), underscoring the urgent need for global action against the climate crisis.

In a heartfelt statement, Bishop Kasonde articulated the collective cry of the African continent and the Pope's concerns, emphasising the disproportionate impact of climate change on the world’s most vulnerable, especially in Africa. He stressed that Africa's minimal contribution to historic emissions stands in stark contrast to the severe consequences they endure.

Bishop Kasonde outlined the key issues that AMECEA will champion at COP28, including:

1. A vigorous response to the UN's Global Stocktake, which highlights the world's delay in meeting climate goals.

2. The transformation of agricultural systems to ensure climate resilience and food security across Africa.

3. The implementation of fair climate finance, with developed nations taking the lead in supporting vulnerable countries.

4. Support for adaptation measures and operationalising the Loss & Damage Fund to address the irreversible damages of climate change.

5. A rapid and equitable transition away from fossil fuels towards sustainable energy, with a focus on tripling renewable energy capacity.

6. Advocacy for good governance in the extraction of minerals essential for climate change technology, ensuring environmental and social justice.

7. Addressing the intertwined issues of inequality and environmental degradation.

Bishop Kasonde's message comes in solidarity with Pope Francis, echoing his call for decisive action and representing the voiceless and vulnerable. As AMECEA prepares to attend COP28, they carry with them the commitment to strategic and considerate action that prioritises the common good and the voices of those most affected by the harsh realities of climate change.

"The time for action is now," Bishop Kasonde declared. "We cannot afford to be remembered for our inaction in the face of urgency."

AMECEA's participation in COP28 is a call to the world to remember that the fight against the climate crisis is a fight for the future of our children and the planet. They urge global leaders and communities to heed this call and join them in their commitment to effectuate a significant shift in addressing the climate crisis.

This statement is set for broadcast and publication across various media platforms, to share the urgency and commitment of AMECEA in tackling the global climate crisis.

For more information, please contact:

Fr Paul Igweta, Secretary for Social Justice and Ecology, AMECEA - Email: justiceandpeace@amecea.org

Fr Charles B. Chilufya, Secretary for Social Justice and Ecology, Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM) - E-mail: jeodirector@jesuits.africa

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