Former President Dr. Joyce Banda Addresses Climate Change and Sustainable Development at Africa Forum

 BY ISHMAEL CHIMWAZA 

Former Malawian President Dr. Joyce Banda traveled to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to attend the 10th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development invited by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).

She emphasized the importance of staying focused on achieving Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals despite challenges from COVID-19 and climate change impacts. Dr. Banda urged for more practical actions rather than just talk, especially at the community level, to combat the effects of climate change.

She highlighted the lack of progress despite numerous climate summits and financial commitments, advocating for a grassroots-driven approach to address climate change issues effectively within communities.

Dr. Banda called for urgent investments in renewable energy to provide electricity to millions in sub-Saharan Africa, where a vast population lacks access to reliable energy sources.

During the forum, she stressed the need for Africa to utilize its natural resources and youthful population to promote sustainable development. Dr. Banda emphasized the importance of involving women and youth in decision-making processes, as they are significantly impacted by both successes and failures in development initiatives.