- China has signed 19 MoUs with 17 African countries to enhance South-South cooperation on climate change, focusing on low-carbon initiatives and clean energy development.
- The agreements, announced before the 2024 FOCAC summit, include support such as solar power stations and capacity-building workshops to bolster Africa’s climate change mitigation efforts.
On Monday, September 2, 2024, the Chinese government signed 19 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 17 African countries, focusing on South-South cooperation to combat climate change. This development was revealed during a joint press conference held before the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which will take place in Beijing from September 4 to September 6, 2024.
The announcement was made by Ms Xu Jianping, Director-General of the Department of Regional Opening-up at the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), and Mr Wang Heming, Director-General of the Bureau of Sub-Saharan African Affairs at the International Department, Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC).
The officials emphasised that climate change is a universal challenge requiring collective action from all nations. They underscored China’s proactive stance in addressing climate change and its role in advancing multilateral environmental efforts.
The newly signed MoUs are part of a broader initiative under the declaration on China-Africa Cooperation on Climate Change, establishing a strategic partnership to tackle climate issues. The agreement also introduces a unique action plan to foster collaboration and support for climate change mitigation and adaptation projects across Africa.
China’s commitment includes creating low-carbon demonstration zones in the 17 participating African countries. To support these initiatives, China has pledged to provide a range of assistance, including satellite systems, solar photovoltaic power stations, and energy-saving lamps.
These resources are intended to bolster African nations’ capacity to address climate-related challenges effectively. In addition to providing technological and infrastructural support, China has been active in capacity building.
Over 400 officials, experts, and technicians from African countries have participated in workshops focused on South-South cooperation related to climate change. These workshops aim to enhance the technical skills and knowledge required for effective climate action.
Furthermore, China has proposed a significant global initiative to advance clean energy development. This project reflects China’s broader goal of fostering sustainable energy solutions and enhancing African energy access.
The officials reiterated China’s dedication to strengthening its cooperation with African countries in combating climate change. They emphasised China’s commitment to enhancing Africa’s capacity to address climate issues and contributing to a global climate governance system that benefits all.
The MoUs and the related initiatives underscore China’s strategic approach to supporting African nations in their climate change efforts while promoting a win-win framework for global environmental stewardship.