UNECA on how to leverage the AfCFTA to ensure food security

As Africa grapples with the challenges of climate change, the need for a concerted effort to address the impact on economies and livelihoods has never been greater. The African Climate Policy Centre at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is advocating for a new political economy that prioritizes cohesion, equality, and environmental sustainability to enable drastic climate actions across the continent. Jean-Paul Adam, the Director of Technology, Climate Change, and Natural Resources Management Division at UNECA, highlighted the urgent need for resources to underwrite climate actions, emphasizing that the funds required already exist. He pointed out that the impact of climate change is projected to be between 3% to 5% of GDP within the next decade, with African countries already spending significant resources to mitigate environmental degradation, such as floods and locust invasions. Adam emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in key sectors to combat climate change effectively. The opportunities lie in investing in energy access to connect the 590 million Africans currently without electricity. Renewable energy offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for this challenge. Moreover, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents an opportunity to enhance food security by attracting investments from various stakeholders, including large businesses, small and medium enterprises, and small-scale landowners. Additionally, nature-based solutions were highlighted as a crucial avenue for sustainable development. By investing in initiatives directly linked to environmental enhancement, such as water catchment areas and mangrove replanting, Africa can not only mitigate the impact of climate change but also create long-term employment opportunities. Despite the growing recognition of the climate crisis, Adam acknowledged the disparity in attention and resources between addressing COVID-19 and climate change. While COVID-19 prompted immediate global action, climate change has been a gradual but persistent challenge that requires sustained investment and commitment. Adam stressed the importance of treating climate change with the same urgency as COVID-19, calling for increased financing and innovative approaches to climate adaptation and mitigation. The conversation then turned to the role of digitalization in fostering sustainable growth and recovery on the continent. Adam underscored the necessity of equipping the workforce with digital skills to capitalize on the emerging digital economy. He highlighted energy as a pivotal sector that can drive job creation and attract private sector investment. By providing a conducive framework for investment and de-risking mechanisms, Africa can harness its potential for sustainable development through digitalization. In addressing the need for homegrown solutions and fostering innovation, Adam emphasized the importance of investing in research and development. While Africa lags in R&D investment compared to other regions, there are pockets of innovation and resilience demonstrated during the pandemic. Many African countries showcased innovation in producing their own personal protective equipment (PPE) and adopting technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics for COVID-19 response. Adam stressed the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area in nurturing innovation and rewarding entrepreneurs across the continent. By creating a conducive ecosystem for innovation and leveraging the AfCFTA, Africa can drive sustainable growth and development while addressing the challenges posed by climate change. As African countries navigate the dual crises of COVID-19 and climate change, strategic investments, innovative solutions, and collective action are key to building resilience and ensuring a sustainable future for the continent.