SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | SDG 13: Climate Action
Institutions: NITI Aayog | Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change | Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
The United Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa (UNU-INRA) has launched Counting the Cost: From Extraction to Green Transition, Tackling the Dealbreakers of Finance, Justice and Development at the Second Africa Climate Summit in Addis Ababa. The report highlights a stark paradox: while Africa bears minimal responsibility for climate change, it faces disproportionate risks ahead in its push for green development. With 75% of global cobalt reserves and substantial solar, wind, and hydrogen potential, the continent’s renewable wealth is undeniable, but so are the challenges. Africa needs US $25–50 billion annually to achieve universal energy access by 2030, plus US $200 billion per year for its climate goals. Current reliance on debt-based climate finance and threats like the EU’s carbon border tax may undermine export earnings. The report advocates for African-led green industrialization, value addition in critical minerals, regional market integration, and justice-centered climate action to avoid replicating extractive development patterns.
Follow the full report here:
https://unu.edu/inra/press-release/acs2-new-unu-inra-report-uncovers-economic-social-and-justice-costs-africas