Sub-Saharan Africa has contributed little to global greenhouse gas emissions, and yet it is the world’s most vulnerable region to climate change. Rising temperatures and sea levels, as well as rainfall anomalies, are increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. Heavy dependence on rain-fed agriculture and limited ability to adapt to weather-related shocks means that the livelihoods of millions are threatened by climate-induced disasters. COP27, often dubbed as “the Africa” COP, has recently ended. World leaders gathered in Sharm El-Sheikh to discuss how to mobilize collective efforts for ambitious emission reductions and adaptation. What are the key implications for sub-Saharan Africa? What is needed to make the continent development path resilient to climate change, while preserving the sustainability of public finances? How can the region attain a just energy transition without jeopardizing the achievement of its development goals?

The IMF’s African Department is pleased to host Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi (Executive Vice President of the African Center for Economic Transformation) and Lee White (Gabon’s Minister of Water, Forest, the Sea and Environment) to discuss these issues.

The conversation will be moderated by the IMF’s African Department Director, Abebe Aemro Selassie.

Speakers:

Ms. Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi – Executive Vice President, African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET)
Prof. Lee White – Minister of Water, Forest, the Sea and Environment, Gabon