Belém, Brazil — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, delivered a powerful message at the COP30 Leaders Summit, declaring that Africa has come to the global climate negotiations “with conviction,” ready to lead and ready to transform.

Speaking before world leaders, Youssouf asserted that Africa is not a passive participant but “an agent of transformation,” highlighting the continent’s expanding solar fields, green innovation hubs, and the growing impact of youth-led climate solutions. He emphasised that Africa is already charting a path toward “a just, inclusive, low-carbon future.”

But his optimism was matched with a sharp critique of global climate financing inequalities.

Despite holding 40% of the world’s renewable energy potential, Africa receives less than 12% of global climate finance — a gap he described as unacceptable.
“We do not ask for charity,” Youssouf stressed. “We ask for climate justice—fair access to finance, technology, and opportunity. Those least responsible for this crisis must not bear its heaviest burden.”

The AU Chairperson urged world leaders to make COP30 a turning point, shifting from declarations to delivery.

“COP30 should mark the moment the world moved from pledges to progress, from vulnerability to vitality,” he said. “The time for half measures is over. The time for bold, united action is now.”

His remarks resonated strongly with African delegates and climate advocates pushing for equitable financing, greater investment in renewable energy, and stronger global accountability.