Ex-THISDAY editor Adeola Akinremi implores African leaders to prioritise climate action

Adeola Akinremi, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Development Action & Campaign for Africa (DACA), is urging President Bola Tinubu and other African leaders to pay more attention to climate change.

The former features editor at THISDAY newspaper, in an interview, said he is working with governments and businesses to prioritise climate change action across the continent.

Akinremi said African leaders need to move beyond COP attendances and other summits to focus on climate change efforts that can protect livelihoods and communities.

He said the continent should accelerate investments in climate adaptation and mitigation.

“Africa has the world’s lowest per capita greenhouse gas emissions, but the impact is felt very strongly on the continent. Africa is one of the hardest hit continents and we don’t have the shock absorber,” he said.

“Africa’s poorest communities are often powerless in the face of extreme weather events.

“These extreme conditions are altering weather patterns across Sub-Saharan Africa, resulting in significant negative impacts on livelihoods, food security, nutrition, and national economies.

“We have seen devastating consequences of flooding on our communities and the health of the people.

“Agriculture is affected and cholera and malaria cases have continued to surge, especially in places of poverty and conflict, with outbreaks reported in more than 26 countries and fatality rates rising sharply. This is what climate change means.

“We believe in equitable climate solutions, in ensuring that the benefits of the transition to a net-zero economy are widely shared, and in empowering marginalized and vulnerable populations—who suffer the brunt of a changing climate.

“Our advocacy is built to educate citizens to act, policymakers to work and businesses to be responsible.”