In the realm of climate action, two prominent African leaders hold opposing views. Kenyan President William Ruto advocates for self-reliance and investment, while South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa seeks support from the rich world.
President Ruto recently emphasized at the United Nations General Assembly that Africa’s aim is not to seek charity but to encourage investment for global prosperity. He reiterated this stance at the first Africa Climate Summit held in Nairobi on September 6.
In contrast, President Ramaphosa criticized industrialized nations for not fulfilling their 2009 commitment to provide $100 billion annually in climate finance. He made this point in multiple speeches in New York and in an open letter to South Africans. However, his own Environment Minister, Barbara Creecy, suggested that developing nations should focus on planning for the future rather than dwelling on the $100 billion pledge.
It’s worth noting that South Africa has heavily relied on coal for electricity generation for nearly a century and ranks as the world’s 14th-largest producer of climate-warming gases. The country’s carbon intensity is surpassed by only Mongolia and the Solomon Islands.
Observers suggest that President Ruto is bolstering his international credibility while dealing with economic challenges at home, while President Ramaphosa may be seeking economic assistance for his country, which faces economic difficulties.
