Panelists discussing the environmental taxes, assess how effective carbon taxes are in Africa, and evaluate the role of tax incentives in driving green energy initiatives.
By Peace Muthoka.
The vibrant city of Nairobi, Kenya, has come alive as it hosts the Sustainable Climate Finance in Africa Civil Society Learning Event from 30 October to 1 November 2024. This important conference brings together leaders from across the continent to address pressing issues of resource justice, fiscal justice and climate justice, paving the way for transformative change in sustainable climate finance.
The event kicked off with an inspiring keynote address from Dean Bhebhe, Senior Transitions and Campaigns Advisor at PowerShift Africa. Bhebhe captured the audience’s attention with a stark reminder of the climate crisis: “We are in a state of emergency as climatic shocks such as droughts and floods become more frequent”. His call to action underscored the need for urgent and collective efforts to combat these escalating challenges.
Photo: Tax Justice Network Africa, Executive Director Chenai Mukumba.
Bhebhe went on to paint a sobering picture of Africa’s energy landscape, revealing that more than 600 million people lack reliable access to energy. “If we continue on a fossil-fuelled trajectory, we risk leaving 720 million people without energy access by 2030,” he warned. This alarming statistic highlighted the need for a shift towards renewable energy solutions that are not only sustainable, but also equitable.
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The conference has attracted a diverse assembly of participants representing three critical movements: resource justice, fiscal justice and climate justice. This mix of perspectives aims to create a rich interdisciplinary community of practice, fostering collaboration and innovation as stakeholders share insights and strategies for improving sustainable climate finance across Africa.
Workshops and peer learning sessions are at the heart of the event, where participants will explore key issues related to tax policy and climate finance. Bebe emphasised: “We need to look at the structural changes needed across the value chain to avoid perpetuating inequalities.
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