KEYIR NEWS — With less than a month remaining, Ethiopia is intensifying preparations for the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2), set to be held in Addis Ababa from September 8 to 10, under the theme “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing Africa’s Resilient and Green Development.”
The summit, co-organized by the Government of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission (AUC), is expected to convene heads of state, ministers, development partners, and civil society leaders to address one of the continent’s most urgent priorities: securing fair and adequate climate financing while advancing Africa-led solutions to the climate crisis.
At a national media briefing held on Tuesday, H.E. Seyoum Mekonnen, State Minister at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Planning and Development, emphasized the Summit’s dual objectives: showcasing innovative, homegrown climate responses and mobilizing international and domestic financing for green development across the continent.
“The Summit is not just a platform for discussion; it is a strategic moment for Africa to shape the global climate agenda, based on our own priorities and solutions,” said Mr. Seyoum.
According to officials, the Summit will feature: 56 high-level dialogues, 336 side events, 24 pavilions, and multiple exhibition booths hosted by governments, private sector entities, multilateral institutions, and civil society organizations.
The outcomes of the summit are expected to include the Addis Ababa Declaration, a political statement of African consensus on climate ambition, and several Africa Flagship Program Reports, designed to guide investment in renewable energy, adaptation, climate-smart agriculture, and green industrialization.
A multi-tiered coordination architecture is steering the Summit’s organization, including a Steering Committee led by the Office of the Prime Minister, a National Coordination Committee chaired by the Ministry of Planning and Development, and seven specialized committees comprising government institutions, the AUC, and international development partners.
Tuesday’s briefing also highlighted the role of the media in shaping Africa’s climate narrative in the lead-up to ACS2. Journalists and editors across the continent are being encouraged to elevate public understanding of climate issues, amplify African voices, particularly those of women and youth, and foster engagement around sustainable development.
The African continent, despite contributing less than 4 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, remains disproportionately vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including drought, food insecurity, and displacement. Leaders say the Summit represents a crucial opportunity to demand climate justice on the global stage.
Media accreditation is currently open, and more information about the Summit’s agenda and events is available at https://africaclimatesummit2.et.
By ZELALEM GIRMA | KEYIR STAFF WRITER