The World Green Economy Organization (WGEO) and the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa) Solidify Strategic Collaboration at the World Green Economy Summit 2023.
In a significant step towards advancing sustainable development and promoting green initiatives throughout the African continent, the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO) and the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa) formalized their commitment through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the World Green Economy Summit 2023, hosted in Dubai, The United Arab Emirates.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally executed by His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of WGEO, and Mr. Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, Secretary General of UCLG Africa. This momentous agreement signifies a landmark achievement in collaborative endeavors aimed at realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in the 2030 agenda.
“His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer expressed his satisfaction, stating, ‘I am delighted to announce the signing of this pivotal Memorandum of Understanding between WGEO and UCLG Africa during the World Green Economy Summit 2023. This collaboration exemplifies our collective dedication to a sustainable future, in harmony with the SDGs, particularly amplifying our efforts to achieve Goal 7 on affordable and clean energy for all. It further complements the UAE’s role as the host of the upcoming Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 28) in Dubai Expo City. Together, we embark on a journey to empower cities, champion green economies, and contribute significantly to the well-being of our planet. This alliance represents a powerful stride towards a greener, more resilient future for the African continent and beyond.”
“Complementing this partnership, WGEO unveils the Carbon Neutral Cities initiative, expanding upon the achievements of last year’s Global Alliance on Green Economy (GAGE). With backing from 85 countries, this initiative offers tangible solutions for developing environmentally conscious and resilient urban landscapes. H.E. Saeed Al Tayer underscored our unwavering dedication to a sustainable future, emphasizing the thriving prospects of cities while prioritizing environmental stewardship through the Carbon Neutral Cities Initiative.”
“The initiative acts as a dynamic platform, enabling cities to conduct comprehensive measurements, reporting, and monitoring of carbon emissions. Armed with this valuable data, cities can strategically formulate carbon-neutral plans aligned with the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the initiative facilitates access to climate finance through data utilization and Article 6 of the Paris Agreement,” stated Mr. Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, Secretary General of UCLG Africa.
“The signing of the MoU with WGEO stands as a pivotal leap forward for UCLG AFRICA, marking a decisive stride in the journey towards achieving net-zero emissions and fostering resilience in African cities and territories. The imperative for survival necessitates unity in addressing the consequences of an unsustainable development path, where developed nations emit CO2 while developing countries bear the brunt. UCLG AFRICA advocates for a just transition, advocating for substantial investments in renewable energy, particularly in African cities and territories, and compensation for services such as carbon sinking and biodiversity conservation, exemplified by the Congo basin forest. Through their collaborative partnership, WGEO and UCLG Africa aim to spearhead the green movement in Africa, steering away from the unsustainable production and consumption patterns of the past,” emphasized Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi.
UCLG AFRICA, a representative body comprising 51 national associations of local governments and over 2000 cities across the continent, acknowledges the imperative for worldwide cooperation in tackling climate change. The organization champions the cause of just transitions, advocating for developed nations to curtail CO2 emissions while making substantial investments in renewable energy for African cities. Simultaneously, UCLG AFRICA calls for fair compensation to recognize the vital services provided by these cities, including carbon-sinking and biodiversity conservation efforts.
The collaboration between WGEO and UCLG AFRICA encompasses collaborative endeavors such as joint initiatives, workshops, and events, aimed at amplifying the impact of their sustainable development initiatives.
In pursuit of this transformative vision, WGEO and UCLG AFRICA extend an invitation to stakeholders to actively participate in the dedicated platform for realizing Carbon Neutral Cities. This collective effort stands as a pivotal stride toward achieving Net Zero, with the shared goal of forging a sustainable and resilient future for African cities and territories.
Based in the City of Rabat, UCLG Africa serves as the umbrella organization for African local governments, encompassing 44 national associations of local governments and over 2000 cities across the continent. Devoted to fostering African unity and catalyzing development at the grassroots level, the organization plays a pivotal role in empowering local communities.
The strategic collaboration between WGEO and UCLG Africa underscores a mutual dedication to propelling sustainable development, promoting green initiatives, and fostering grassroots-driven progress throughout the African continent. Through their concerted endeavors, the organizations aim to achieve substantial advancements toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
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