Addis Ababa:Ethiopia's green development initiatives have been highlighted as a model for African countries aiming to reduce emissions and enhance climate action, according to Oumar Sylla, Director of the UN-Habitat Regional Office for Africa.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Sylla praised Ethiopia’s efforts in an exclusive interview, noting the country's strides in promoting clean cooking, cleaner energy for vehicles, green corridors, and extensive tree planting. He urged other African nations to learn from and replicate these initiatives.
Sylla emphasized the significance of leadership in Ethiopia's measures to curb emissions. He also encouraged African mayors and ministers of urban development to mirror Ethiopia’s efforts across the continent, citing the planting of over 56 billion tree seedlings since the Green Legacy Initiative's launch in 2019.
Discussing the hosting of the 2027 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP) in Ethiopia, Sylla remarked that the event presents a vital opportunity for Africa to amplify its voice in global climate negotiations. It also serves as a platform for promoting green investment and showcasing progress in climate change mitigation.
Sylla highlighted the critical timing of the conference, suggesting it as a venue for African countries to share climate initiatives, exchange experiences, and strengthen cooperation towards the Paris Agreement goals. He underscored the necessity for stronger climate adaptation and resilience measures in Africa’s rapidly urbanizing cities.
The UN-Habitat official called for African countries and cities to foster solidarity, share knowledge, and develop a unified agenda for COP32's Action Agenda. He noted that coordinated action could advance urban climate solutions and facilitate inter-city learning.
Sylla reiterated UN-Habitat's commitment to supporting Ethiopia in ensuring the success of COP32. The organization is actively engaging with COP presidencies and collaborating with the Addis Ababa city administration to integrate urban development priorities into the conference preparations.
Ethiopia’s urban regeneration and greening initiatives were also highlighted as examples of how cities can contribute to climate action and sustainable urban transformation. Sylla encouraged African cities to analyze Ethiopia’s experience and adapt relevant initiatives to their contexts.
He concluded by stating that COP32 in Ethiopia is a real opportunity for Africa to strengthen its voice in international climate discussions and foster practical cooperation on emissions reduction, climate resilience, and sustainable urban development.
