Environmental justice advocates in West Africa are calling for unity against the ongoing destruction of nature. This plea came during the West Africa Climate Justice Roundtable in Abuja, ahead of the 30th Conference of Parties (COP30) set to take place in Brazil.
Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, the Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, emphasized the need for Africa to recognize and demand compensation for its “climate debt.” He believes that Western nations, which have historically exploited Africa’s resources, should be held accountable for the environmental harm caused.
“Africa has suffered for centuries, and it’s time for the consequences to be acknowledged,” Bassey said. He noted that climate financing doesn’t address the root issue—what he calls a pre-colonial and ongoing debt. He believes African nations have a right to a clean and respectful environment, which is essential for their dignity.
In addition to climate debt, Bassey highlighted urgent issues such as gas flaring and oil spills in Nigeria. Both of these are critical problems that need immediate action to ensure environmental justice.
Mr. Kwami Kpondzo from the Centre for Environmental Justice in Togo spoke about the shared struggles across West Africa. He noted that pollution and environmental degradation are primarily driven by oil extraction, large-scale mining, and industrial agriculture. These practices are severely affecting biodiversity, local waters, and community lands, he warned.
Kpondzo raised concerns about monoculture plantations, like those for palm oil, marketed as “climate solutions.” While positioned as beneficial, they often harm local ecosystems and livelihoods instead.
Looking ahead to COP30, Kpondzo called for collaboration among grassroots movements focused on agroecology, gender justice, and anti-extraction initiatives. “We cannot fight this battle alone. Climate change intertwines with agriculture, food security, and human rights,” he explained.
Both advocates stress that silence is not an option. Activists are committed to amplifying their voices and pushing for justice.
A recent report from the United Nations highlights the urgency, stating that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable regions, increasing food insecurity and displacement. The report notes that by 2030, around 700 million people may be displaced due to climate-related issues.
In summary, the fight for climate justice in West Africa is crucial. It hinges on accountability, collaboration, and the demand for respect for both people and the environment. The challenges are significant, but so is the resolve of activists across the region.
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Environmental justice advocates,Health of Mother Earth Foundation,West Africa Climate Justice Roundtable
