Samia calls for climate finance and unity in Africa

President Samia Suluhu Hassan addressed fellow African leaders, urging them to prioritize climate financing, enhanced early warning systems, and a unified continental stance in global negotiations. The meeting took place on February 13, 2026, in Addis Ababa, on the margins of the African Union Summit.

Impact of Climate Change on African Economies

President Hassan highlighted the disruptive effects of climate change on critical sectors of African economies, including agriculture, energy, fisheries, tourism, and transport infrastructure. She emphasized that these impacts threaten livelihoods across the continent and that the increasing frequency of extreme weather events places significant strain on vulnerable communities.

Tanzania’s Climate Resilience Measures

Tanzania is implementing measures to strengthen resilience, including investments in renewable energy and the promotion of clean cooking solutions. These efforts aim to reduce environmental degradation while improving public health outcomes.

Early Warning Systems and Regional Collaboration

President Hassan stressed the need for reliable weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. She urged stronger collaboration with regional institutions like the African Centre of Meteorological Applications for Development to enhance early warning systems and minimize climate-related losses.

Climate Financing and Carbon Markets

The President called on developed nations to fulfill their climate financing pledges and ensure accessibility and affordability for developing countries. She stated that predictable and adequate financing is essential for both adaptation and mitigation efforts in Africa. Additionally, she advocated for the establishment of harmonized African carbon market standards to enable the continent to benefit equitably from carbon trading while protecting natural resources.

Unified African Voice in Global Negotiations

President Hassan underscored the importance of Africa speaking with one voice in global climate negotiations to ensure that the continent’s development priorities are fully reflected in international agreements.

Preparations for Global Climate Talks

The Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC) meeting is part of broader preparations for upcoming global climate talks, with African leaders aiming to strengthen the continent’s collective response to the climate crisis.