Solwezi, 01 December, 2023 / 9:27 pm (ACI Africa).
Catholic Bishops in the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) region will be advocating for good governance in the extraction of minerals, and operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund among other issues at the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28).
In a statement read out Thursday, November 30, AMECEA Chairman, Bishop Charles Kasonde, said COP28 “presents an opportunity for a significant shift in how we address the climate crisis.”
“Africa is rich in minerals vital for technology, crucial in the fight against climate change. However, the extraction of these resources often comes with environmental degradation and social injustices,” Bishop Kasonde said, and added, “We advocate for good governance in this sector, ensuring that the benefits are equitably shared and environmental standards are upheld.”
He said that Bishops from Eastern Africa attending the November 30 to December 12 event held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), would champion the “rapid and equitable move away from fossil fuels towards sustainable energy.”
“Transition must be inclusive ensuring no community is left behind,” said the Bishop of Solwezi Diocese in Zambia.
