H.E Ambassador Demeke Atnafu, Deputy Head of mission embassy of federal Democratic republic of Ethiopia in kenya.
By Peace Muthoka .
September 8, 2025 – The Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS-2) will take place from September 8–10 at the Addis International Convention Center, bringing together African and global leaders to push the continent’s climate agenda forward.
Co-hosted by the Government of Ethiopia and the African Union, the summit will run under the theme “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development.” More than 45 heads of state, policymakers, business leaders, financiers, academics, youth representatives, and media are expected to attend.
Africa bears the brunt of climate change despite contributing less than 4 percent of global emissions. Rising temperatures have fueled recurring droughts and floods, crippling agriculture, displacing communities, and deepening food insecurity. Weak infrastructure and limited adaptation capacity make the continent even more vulnerable.
The summit seeks to turn pledges into action by championing African-led climate solutions, unlocking climate finance, and strengthening global cooperation. Leaders will explore innovative financing models, including climate funds, green bonds, and partnerships with financial institutions, to mobilize resources for mitigation and adaptation.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia, whose Green Legacy Initiative has planted 47.5 billion plants in just seven years, said the summit offers “a vital opportunity to redefine Africa’s aspirations for a climate-resilient and prosperous future.” Ethiopia’s track record in reforestation and sustainable policies positions it as a fitting host for this landmark event.
ACS-2 will also build on the momentum of the inaugural summit held in Nairobi in 2023, which adopted the Nairobi Declaration. That declaration laid out Africa’s common position on climate finance and called for debt relief, fair restructuring, and a reformed global financial system that enables low-carbon development.
In Addis Ababa, leaders are expected to adopt the “Addis Declaration on Climate Change,” unifying Africa’s stance ahead of COP30. The declaration will emphasize bold action in renewable energy, e-mobility, sustainable food systems, green cities, nature-based solutions, and the protection of indigenous knowledge.
Beyond showcasing policies, ACS-2 aims to amplify Africa’s leadership in shaping the global climate agenda. By focusing on financing, collaboration, and practical solutions, the summit seeks to transform promises into tangible progress for a greener, more resilient continent.
