Ruto Hosts African Leaders for Climate Adaptation Talks

President William Ruto hosted a virtual Special Africa Leaders’ Meeting on Climate Adaptation on January 27, 2026. The meeting involved Heads of State and other partners focused on climate adaptation strategies for the continent.

The meeting reaffirmed shared priorities to mobilize partnerships and increase resilient financing across Africa, with a focus on aligning adaptation efforts with development and macro-economic stability.

Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme

President Ruto highlighted the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme (AAAP) as the continent’s flagship platform for scaling up climate adaptation. The AAAP aims to support job creation, food security, and public health initiatives.

The AAAP is a partnership between the African Union Commission, the African Development Bank, and the Global Centre on Adaptation. This collaboration combines political leadership, financial resources, and technical expertise to accelerate adaptation efforts.

Meeting Participants

Participants in the meeting included Presidents Hakainde Hichilema (Zambia) and Mohammed Al-Menfi (Libya). Also present were African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and former President of Senegal Macky Sall, who chairs the Global Centre on Adaptation Supervisory Board.

Ghana, Norway, Mauritius, and France were represented at the ministerial level. Climate Change CS Deborah Barasa also attended the meeting.