Dubai, UAE – December 3, 2023: The Horn of Africa Initiative (HoAI) recently orchestrated a pivotal high-level dialogue during COP28 in Dubai, uniting finance ministers, international organizations, civil society, and academics to confront the pressing need for bolstering the region’s resilience to climate variability while amplifying coordination and financing endeavors. The initiative is paving the way for an integrated Horn of Africa.
Under the esteemed guidance of Ethiopia’s Finance Minister and HoAI’s Chairman, the panel featured ministers from Djibouti, the Governor of Wajir Province in Kenya, the Executive Secretary of IGAD, the EU Special Envoy for the Horn, the WB Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa, and the AfDB Director for Climate Change and Green Growth. Mrs. Boutheina Guermazi, the Director for Regional Integration for Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and North Africa, adeptly moderated insightful discussions.
In his opening address, the Chair of the Horn of Africa Initiative spotlighted Ethiopia as a trailblazing example of investing in green initiatives despite numerous challenges. With the majority of funding originating from domestic sources, Ethiopia sets an inspiring precedent. However, he underscored that addressing climate change is a collective responsibility shared by major and minor emitters alike. The Chair emphasized the pivotal role of the private sector in the climate finance architecture, extending an invitation to the Arab Development Coordination Group, including BADEA, to join the initiative as members. The HoAI envisions welcoming new members at its 19th Ministerial Meeting in Brussels on December 15, 2024.
Read more on: mofed.gov.et