Convened in Lagos, Nigeria by the Climate Action Africa (CAA), a leading environmental advocates and stakeholders, CAAF24 galvanized actions and underscored the urgent need for climate action across industries and communities across Africa.

In this brief interview with Techeconomy, Grace Oluchi Mbah, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CAA and co-Convener of CAAF24, she descripted the platform as fertile ground for increased education and awareness on climate change, showcasing innovations and projects driving Africa to a sustainable future, and more actively contribute to the expansion of Africa’s green economy.

Excerpt:

TE: Congratulations on successful hosting of the CAAF’s first edition. For the benefit of those who couldn’t be there, what are the key takeaways?

Oluchi Mbah: Thank you. First, if you were ever in doubt, climate change is very real. But as much as it is real, there is a lot of innovation and investments that are being made to change the narrative. So, for example, we saw the World Bank presentation of how weather resistant classrooms are ensuring that children go to school continuously and resilience and infrastructure are key to Africa’s agenda because you know we’re behind on that front.

Imagine if we had those types of classrooms in the out and in the South where floods are very rampant, they will not have to stop schools, will not have to stop attending hospitals because that type of infrastructure is available and they’ve shown us that it’s possible.

We continue to hear about the millions and billions of dollars that are available for Africa and for the world to tap into in terms of climate finance and we learn that what is important is project preparation.

So, we need to use platforms like this and situations like this to learn what financers are looking for because for us to actually accelerate the efforts that we are doing, we need money.

I like to say passion does not buy coffee; as much as we want to see it happen. It doesn’t happen like that. So, we must continuously improve ourselves, improve our skills, try to see how to develop projects.

I mean we even had in the ‘energy room’ (session) someone who is part of a team that do not, probably give you grants rather they are focused on helping in project preparation.

So, those are the type of partners that we brought to CAAF24 to show you that it is possible for you to learn how to develop your projects, how to access this finance and how to collaborate because we cannot afford to work in silos anymore.

TE: In the last decade the buzz has been around fintech, do you see the same thing being replicated among startups with focus on climate solutions?

Oluchi Mbah: Of course, we continue to see a lot of bright minds. We continue to see a lot of exceptional innovators. I mean for our deal room, over 830 people even just registered.

Not all of them got to submit their applications but we could even just read through that backend and see the type of solutions that are proposing to say, okay, this is what we want to do for our communities.

So, we’re definitely sure that in the next couple of years we’re going to see innovations that are actually transforming communities and becoming mainstream as well.

TE: Thanks for speaking to us and kudos to the team for CAAF24

Oluchi Mbah: Thanks to Techeconomy for partnering with us.

Organized by Climate Action Africa (CAA), leading environmental advocates and stakeholders, CAAF24 aims to galvanize action and underscore the urgent need for climate action across industries and communities across Africa.

The event, held at the prestigious Landmark Center, brought together a diverse array of stakeholders including government officials, business leaders, academics, civil society representatives and the media.

The theme of this year’s forum, “Green Economies, Brighter Futures,” highlights the imperative for immediate and collective action in mitigating the effects of climate change in Africa and achieving global sustainability goals.

“CAAF24 serves as a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration,” said Grace Oluchi Mbah, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CAA.  “With the event, we aim to increase education and awareness on climate change, showcase innovations and projects driving Africa to a sustainable future, and more actively contribute to the expansion of Africa’s green economy.”

The program featured addresses from Her Excellency, Madame Ramatoulaye Diallo Ndiaye, Former Minister of Culture Mali and Founder and CEO of the Great Green Wall of Africa (GGWoA) Foundation who was the special keynote speaker.

There were breakout sessions for panel discussions and workshops that focused on key issues such as the potential of forests and carbon credits, climate financing, Nigeria’s carbon market activation, mobilizing private capital for climate-positive investments in Africa, building resilient and livable African Cities and more.

Sessions were designed to encourage interactive participation and exchange of ideas among participants from diverse backgrounds and sectors.

Deal Room

In addition to formal sessions, CAAF24 included networking opportunities and showcased the selection of outstanding innovations from over 800 registrations through the Deal Room, a platform that connected high-impact climate innovators in Africa with potential investors seeking to accelerate sustainable solutions.

Billion Trees for Africa Initiative

Other highlights at CAAF24 were the audacious launch of the Billion Trees for Africa Initiative as part of CAA’s community programs and the unveiling of the Pan-African Green Economy Program (PAGE), a partnership with IDEA AFRICA and the Founder Institute that seeks to grow a new generation of 5,000 green innovators across Africa by 2035.

Climate Champion Quest

The selection of Omoniyi Praise (1st position), Treasure Nwosu (2nd position) and Alabi Abimbola (3rd position) as winners for the Climate Champion Quest organised by STEAM Funfest also stood out at CAAF24.

As Africa faces increasingly severe climate impacts, CAAF24 is a platform that is committed to unifying the participation of diverse stakeholders in advancing and achieving climate action in Africa.

By reinforcing the urgency of climate change through meaningful dialogue and collaboration, CAAF24 inspires concrete steps towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Climate Thought Leaders in Attendance

Madame Ramatoulaye Diallo Ndiaye, former Minister of Culture Mali, currently, the founder and CEO of the Great Green Wall of Africa (GGWoA) Foundation; Ambassador ​Nicholas Agbo Ella Permanent secretary Ministry of Petroleum Resources; Madam Rukia El Rufia Special Advisor the president of the federal republic of Nigeria on NEC and Climate Change; Dr Titilayo Oshodi the Special adviser to the Lagos State Governor on climate change and circular economy; Madam Edith Jibunoh, external and corporate relations (ECR) manager for East and Southern Africa, representing the World Bank; Mr Gerald Esambe, Principal Officer Climate and Green Growth Department at African Development Bank Group; Professor Benedict Oramah, president of AfreximBank, represented by Ms Helen Brume, Director of Project and Asset Based Finance at the Bank; Mr. Markus Wauschkuhn, Cluster Coordinator, Sustainable Economic Development Cluster of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, amongst others.

Faces at CAAF24

Key Takeaways from Remarks by Climate Change Thought Leaders at CAAF24

• Innovation and Technology Adoption: Leveraging cutting-edge solutions to address climate challenges and accelerate green development.
• Strong Partnerships: Collaboration across stakeholders – governments, businesses, NGOs, and communities – is essential for success.
• Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building: Empowering communities and fostering a culture of sustainability across Africa.
• Mobilizing Financing for Adaptation, Mitigation, and Job Creation: Financial resources are crucial for implementing climate solutions and creating a just transition to a green economy.

Themed “Building a Climate-Smart Africa,” the forum underscored the urgency of climate action while highlighting Africa’s immense potential to be a leader in sustainability.

In her opening remarks, Grace Oluchi Mbah, Climate Action Africa (CAA) co-founder and executive director, acknowledged the stark challenges like Africa warming faster than any other region, millions vulnerable to rising sea levels, and the devastating impact on smallholder farmers, the lifeblood of the continent.

However, Mbah emphasized hope and agency. She announced the launch of the ambitious Billion Trees for Africa Initiative, aiming to restore degraded lands and empower communities.

Additionally, CAA unveiled the Pan-African Green Economy Program (PAGE), a partnership with IDEA AFRICA and the Founder Institute, which aims to cultivate a new generation of 5,000 green innovators across Africa by 2035.

$20 million initial investment fund

Recognizing the critical role of investment, CAA proudly announced its support for the Pan African Climate Action Fund.

This $20 million initial investment fund, co-created by dedicated Africans, seeks to empower small businesses and startups driving change in the energy, agriculture, circularity, and transportation sectors.

Rukia El-Rufai, Special Advisor to the Nigerian Vice President on NEC and Climate Change, took the stage next.

She emphasized that simply acknowledging the importance of nature is not enough. El-Rufai highlighted the need to move beyond low-value carbon credits and educational barriers that hinder attracting financing for climate solutions.

She stressed the importance of a strong business case alongside environmental benefits. El-Rufai commended the forum’s theme, “climate-smart,” because it underscores the need for economic growth alongside emissions reduction.

El-Rufai emphasized the crucial role of National Determined Contributions (NDCs) – national plans outlining climate action commitments. She urged collaboration across generations and highlighted successful examples from emerging economies like Mexico and Indonesia, demonstrating strong economic growth alongside reduced emissions.

She concluded by calling for increased investment in renewable energy and sustainable practices, drawing on her personal experience with drastically reduced energy bills through solar panels.

The forum welcomed Madame Ramatoulaye Diallo Ndiaye, CEO of the Great Green Wall of Africa (GGWoA) Foundation, for the keynote address. Ndiaye powerfully asserted Africa’s critical role in the well-being of the entire planet. She stressed Africa’s vast natural resources and potential to be a leader in building a sustainable and resilient future.

Ndiaye echoed the importance of innovation, but emphasized the need for well-defined projects, education, and strong partnerships.

She highlighted her career dedicated to a sustainable approach, combining traditional knowledge with modern solutions.

Ndiaye pointed to the Green Wall of Africa initiative and the newly launched Green Ringwall Initiative strategy as examples of visionary leadership and strong policy driving progress.

The forum serves as a critical platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and charting a path towards a climate-smart Africa.

The decisions made and connections forged at CAAF24 have the potential to shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for Africa.

This continent, brimming with potential and innovation, is poised to be a leader in the global fight against climate change.

CAAF24 is a global forum that will play host to a diverse array of influential thought leaders and environmental champions, from the African Development  Bank (Abidjan), Afreximbank (Cairo), World Bank (Washington, D.C.), World Economic Forum (Geneva), and AECF (Nairobi), just to name a few.

According to Grace Oluchi, executive director, Climate Action Africa, with over 3,600 registered attendees and more 600 applications for its Deal Room and workshops, CAAF24 is on track to be an unprecedented hub for climate action and sustainable energy transition on the African continent.

Techeconomy offers a sneak peek at the lineup of speakers:

Markus Wauschkuhn, cluster coordinator for the Sustainable Economic Development Cluster of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, will join us for the opening plenary with a goodwill message.

Ramatoulaye Diallo Ndiaye, former Mali Minister for Culture and founder of the Great Green Wall of Africa Foundation, will take the stage to deliver an insightful and thought-provoking keynote address.

Expect to be enlightened by Micheal Oluwagbemi, the program director of PCNGi, as he unravels the intricacies of the CNG initiative, and be enthralled by the demo sessions that will showcase how this alternative fuel source is revolutionizing the energy landscape.

Edith Jibunoh, external and corporate relations (ECR) manager for East and Southern Africa at the World Bank, will shed more light on the Bank’s climate finance programs and the incredible strides made in achieving sustainability goals.

Marilyn Obaisa-Osula, head of ESG, Sustainability and Climate Change at PwC Nigeria, will expertly steer our first panel on the Climate Connect Stage, navigating the choppy waters of African climate policy and leading the charge for a greener future.

Below are select speakers out of the nearly 100 Speakers/Panellists:

1. Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, the newly appointed DG of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).
2. Dr. Ayotunde Coker, CEO of Open Access Data Centres Limited.
3. Ms. Helen Brume, Director of Project and Asset-Based Finance at Afreximbank.
4. Nana Maidugu, Head of Sustainability at Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).
5. Prof. Kate Omenugha, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU)
6. Shehu Umar, Innovation and Portfolio Manager at IHS Towers Nigeria.
7. Gerald Esambe Njume, Climate Lead, AfDB
8. Dr. Isa M. Iyortim, Project Management Specialist, Mission Environmental Officer, and Climate Integration Lead at USAID/Nigeria and many more.

The list is by no means exhaustive as CAAF24 with a lineup as diverse and inspiring as the African continent itself, promises to be enthralling.

Techeconomy is an official media partner to CAAF24.

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, The Catalyst Fund, and the Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund are also supporters of this event.

The CAAF24 Deal Room is a platform connecting climate innovators in Africa with investors interested in supporting sustainable solutions. Climate-tech businesses focused on reducing emissions, energy, agriculture, transportation, circular economy, and building and construction are encouraged to apply.

Sonia Borrini, Communication and Knowledge Management Specialist at the African Development Bank, stated:

“By facilitating connections between passionate entrepreneurs and dedicated investors, including the Bank’s strategic involvement, we can collectively unlock the immense potential of climate solutions in Africa.”

The Bank’s participation reflects its commitment to boosting investments in Africa’s green economy. It aims to galvanise a community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors to create applicable solutions to mitigate the challenges of climate change on the African continent.

Eligibility for the CAAF24 Deal Room includes:

• African-owned companies operating in any of the 54 African countries.
• For-profit companies between 1-5 years post-incorporation, post-minimum viable product and post-go-to-market.
• Companies that leverage digital technology in their business model.
• Female ownership is considered an added advantage.

“Through the CAAF24 Deal Room, and with the African Development Bank’s presence, we aim to bridge the critical gap between promising climate ventures and the essential resources they need to thrive,” says Grace Oluchi Mbah, Executive Director of Climate Action Africa.

The CAAF24 Deal Room will conclude with a post-event accelerator program in partnership with the Silicon Valley-based Founder Institute and IDEA Africa.

This program is designed to further accelerate and enhance support for promising climate tech startups and founders.

The African Development Bank’s commitment to supporting climate action initiatives in Africa and its belief in the potential of the CAAF24 Deal Room to drive sustainable solutions remain unwavering.

This was the focus of the climate change media briefing held in Lagos, Nigeria, on Friday.

With Nigeria facing significant vulnerability to rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and environmental degradation, Climate Action Africa emphasizes the need for a united front across all stakeholder groups.

Developing countries like Nigeria, and many others across Africa, face unique sets of challenges when it comes to climate change.

“Nigeria’s unique position and vast resources necessitate a comprehensive strategy that leverages the expertise and commitment of every sector,” says Grace Oluchi Mbah, co-founder and executive director at Climate Action Africa. “From government and industry leaders to scientists, community organizations, and individual citizens, we all have a role to play in building a more resilient and sustainable future.”

The importance of fostering collaboration in areas like policy development and implementation, innovation and technology, community mobilization and education, and investment and financing were highlighted during the media briefing.

These are the challenges that the Climate Action Africa Forum 2024 (CAAF24) is set to address.

The upcoming CAAF24 scheduled for June 19-20 in Lagos, serves as a testament to CAA’s commitment to fostering collaboration.

The forum will bring together key stakeholders from across Africa to discuss innovative solutions and develop concrete action plans for tackling climate change.

The forum will introduce the Deal Room, a dynamic marketplace connecting Africa’s brightest innovators with forward-thinking investors to accelerate impactful deals for climate action and sustainable development.

Following the conference, CAA will partner with Silicon Valley based Founder Institute, the world’s largest startup accelerator to provide ongoing support to African innovators in a post accelerator programme.

“CAAF24 provides a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, collaborative problem-solving, and forging strategic partnerships,” says Mbah. “By working together, we can ensure that Nigeria, and Africa as a whole, emerges as a leader in building a sustainable and climate-resilient future.”

Climate Action Africa urges all stakeholders to take a proactive stance in addressing the climate crisis.

Through collaborative efforts, innovation, and a shared commitment to a sustainable future, Nigeria can mitigate the impact of climate change and pave the way for a more prosperous and resilient tomorrow.

This international event brings together stakeholders from across the world who drive thought leadership insights on how to encourage collaboration, catalyse actionable solutions, and urge governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in climate-smart initiatives.

The climate-focused event was announced at last week’s Friday international press conference held at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

This marks a significant milestone in Africa’s journey towards a sustainable future.

A precursor to the upcoming Climate Action Africa Forum scheduled for June 17-19, 2024, at the Landmark Events Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, this press conference brought together leaders, experts, and stakeholders from across the globe.

The gathering’s main goal was to discuss the urgent need for sustainable development plans and climate-smart investments in Africa.

Framed by the theme “Green Economies, Brighter Futures: Innovating and Investing in Africa’s Climate-Smart Development,” the international press conference became a vibrant platform for insightful discussions, strategic collaborations, and impactful engagements.

It convened an esteemed gathering of leaders, experts, and stakeholders to explore solutions for Africa’s pressing environmental challenges.

The event kicked off with a welcome address by Grace Mbah, the executive director and Co-founder of Climate Action Africa,  who having announced the commencement of event registration as April 2nd, 2024, made the call for tech-driven solutions and innovations in the fields of emissions reduction, transportation, agriculture, energy, circularity and building and construction to apply to participate in the deal room.

Providing insights to attendees on how innovative approaches and collaborative action is at the heart of CAAF24, she extended an opportunity to like, minded organisations who would like to partner by hosting side events and finally, a call for volunteers from across the continent.

“It’s no news that the world stands at a critical juncture, where decisive action is imperative to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. Against this backdrop, CAAF24 serves as a pivotal platform for key stakeholders to engage in meaningful discourse, and forge collaborative pathways towards a greener, more sustainable future.

The essence of CAAF lies in its commitment to shaping a climate-resilient Africa through co-creation, innovation, and sustainable investment. Through this initiative, we aim to catalyse solutions that enhance the sustainability and prosperity of the continent’s natural resources, people, and economies,” Grace stated.

During the International Press Conference, distinguished speakers and thought leaders emphasised the urgent need for collective action in tackling Africa’s climate challenges.

They delved into critical topics like renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and climate finance, offering practical insights and inspiring initiatives.

Jummai Vandu, representing the National Council on Climate Change, expressed optimism about the initiative’s outcomes.

“Today’s discussions,” she said, “underscore the urgency of our collective efforts to combat climate change. The National Council believes working together is key to driving meaningful action and creating a more sustainable future for Africa and beyond.”

With the International Press Conference complete, the stage is set for CAAF24. Stakeholders will converge to translate ideas into action, forge partnerships, and drive progress towards a climate-smart Africa.

Mrs. Taiwo Fashipe, head of Media for the Presidential CNG Initiative (P-CNGi), echoed similar sentiments, stating:

“The theme of this year’s Climate Action Africa Forum aligns with our goals, vision, and mission at the Presidential CNG Initiative. We look forward to using this platform to advance interest in and investment in greener and cleaner energy sources like CNG.”

Standing at a crucial juncture in Africa’s quest for sustainable development, CAAF24, convened by Climate Action Africa in partnership with the National Council on Climate Change, Channels Media Group, and Founder Institute, emerges as a beacon.

It brings together the private and public sectors, guiding the continent towards a future marked by resilience, prosperity, and environmental stewardship.

Open for registration, the webinar will convene a diverse group of experts and stakeholders on February 29.

The virtual event hosted on LinkedIn from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM WAT (UTC+1) will explore the successes and challenges of climate finance in Africa, paving the way for a more sustainable future. Moderators bringing diverse perspectives include Collins Otieno, Climate Change Policy & Development Practitioner and Lead, Climate Finance and Innovations (VCA), Hivos; Sandra Guzmán Luna, Low Carbon Development & Climate Finance Specialist and Founder, GFLAC; Otito Nwaigwe-Chukwu, ESG Consultant & Climate Finance Specialist, Senior Consultant, EarnMore Consultants and Luke Moore, Climate Finance, Adaptation, and Programme Design Specialist, Associate, Zest Associates.

Africa faces a crucial turning point. Despite abundant renewable energy resources and a vibrant young population, climate ambitions are hampered by a funding gap.

To achieve the 1.5°C global warming target, Africa requires USD 2.8 trillion in climate finance by 2030. Current flows fall short, hindering progress towards development goals.

Grace Oluchi Mbah, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CAA, states: “Africa stands at the crossroads of climate action and development. While rich in renewable energy resources and youthful population, it grapples with climate change and socio-economic challenges.”

The CAAF24 Pre-Event Webinar fosters critical dialogue and collaboration. Attendees will gain valuable insights from data-driven presentations offering a comprehensive overview of the African climate finance landscape, expert panel discussions featuring project leaders, policymakers, and finance specialists sharing real-world case studies and practical recommendations.

Finally, there will be an engaging Q&A session that will provide an opportunity to interact with the esteemed panelists and delve deeper into key issues.

With the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) due in 2025, this webinar arrives at a critical moment.

By fostering knowledge sharing, collaboration, and action, it aims to equip stakeholders with the tools and strategies needed to mobilize resources and bridge the climate finance gap, build capacity and expertise across the continent and secure a climate-smart future for Africa and its people.