“First and foremost, I am pleased to see that COP28 has addressed some of the key priorities we have long called for. We are finally seeing the world recognise that international climate commitments cannot come at the expense of Africa’s development. If the international community stays true to its word, then the agreements made in Dubai will undoubtedly open up great investment and business opportunities in Africa’s green assets. But let’s not be premature in our congratulations. Financing is still the elephant in the room – commitments are great, but where is the money? Our continent cannot continue to wait for the rest of the world to get itself in order and put our development in the hands of others. With the road to COP29 starting here, the need to build a stronger, more self-reliant Africa has never been greater.”