The African Parliamentarians Summit on Climatic Change opened in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi on Tuesday in a bid to strengthen Africa’s position on climate change in preparation for the climate change conference to be held in Copenhagen in December.
In his address, the Executive President of the Pan-African Parliamentarian’s Network on Climate Change, Awudu Mbaya reaffirmed that the African position in Copenhagen summit in December would be greatly influenced by the Nairobi forum.
“The eyes of Africa and the world are directed towards Nairobi, expecting the outcome. We shall make or mar the African position in Copenhagen at this conference,” he said.
Mbaya commended Kenya for hosting the forum which, he termed as one of the greatest efforts aimed at supporting global commitment towards combating climate change which has become a serious threat to the survival of mankind.
He asked parliamentarians to ensure that climate change is integrated into individual countries’ national laws for it to be managed without affecting nations’ paths towards prosperity.
He said that African negotiators during the forthcoming United Nations Conference in Copenhagen must be guided by benchmarks aimed at achieving results that are fair, equitable and effective in the African situation.
In his opening remarks, President Mwai Kibaki urged African political leaders to work together in defining the continent’s agenda and destiny as they prepare for the global conference on climate ahead of the conference expected to draw all countries from the world.
The head of state, at the same time, challenged legislators in Africa to lead the crusade against actions that lead to adverse climatic change.
“The outcome of this parliamentary forum will be expected to strengthen Africa’s position on climate change in preparation for the Conference of Parties to be held in Copenhagen in December this year,” Kibaki said.
“I urge you in your capacity as political leaders to accept more responsibility in combating global problems associated with climate change. We count on your support, as success requires cooperation, networking and participation from all stakeholders,” said the President.
The head of state underscored the importance of developing appropriate policies, laws and strategies that would conserve the environment.
The President said parliamentarians in the continent have the legitimacy to enact policies and laws aimed at ensuring a safe, healthy and sustainable natural environment that serves the needs of current and future generations.
Source African Press Agency
