Kenyan President Raises Concerns About Debt Impact on Africa’s Climate Potential | Global News

Kenyan President William Ruto has issued a stark warning about Africa’s potential in the global fight against climate change being jeopardized by heavy debt burdens and a lack of international investment. Speaking during a state visit to Washington, Ruto emphasized that Africa has the necessary resources and workforce to make significant contributions to the green economy, with Kenya already generating 90 percent of its energy from renewables.

Ruto highlighted the continent’s vast potential in areas crucial to averting a climate catastrophe, such as natural resources like forest “sinks” that absorb carbon emissions. However, he expressed concern that Africa only receives two percent of global investment in renewable energy, with some countries prioritizing debt servicing over essential services like healthcare.

The Kenyan president stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that Africa’s role in addressing climate change cannot be taken for granted. He pointed out the growing costs of climate-related disasters on the continent and emphasized the economic benefits of green investment, noting that Africa holds 60 percent of the potential resources for global solar energy.

Following talks with President Joe Biden at the White House, Ruto called for increased US support through institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. He urged Biden to double the US contribution to the International Development Association to assist low-income countries.

Ruto and Biden issued a joint statement calling for bold action to assist developing countries, particularly in areas like climate change and debt relief. The call for international support for countries committed to ambitious reforms underscores the critical need for collaboration in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change in Africa and beyond.