Africa is grappling with a biodiversity crisis as COP16 fails to deliver sufficient action to protect its rich ecosystems. The recent conference in Cali, Colombia, yielded minimal advancements in safeguarding the continent’s natural resources, raising concerns among experts about the future of Africa’s diverse flora and fauna.
With approximately one-third of the world’s biodiversity housed within its borders, Africa is recognized as one of the most biologically rich regions globally. However, alarming rates of habitat degradation pose significant threats to its ecological integrity. Analysts have expressed disappointment that COP16, held in late October, did not deliver the decisive action needed to combat these ongoing challenges.
Despite a commitment made during the UN summit to protect 30% of the world’s biodiversity by 2030, there are growing concerns over the pace of progress. Zitouni Ould Dada, a senior advisor to the FAIRR Initiative and former deputy director of the Climate and Environment Division at the FAO, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “The biodiversity COP is moving too slowly and failing to meet the urgent needs,” he stated. While recognizing the increasing awareness of biodiversity issues, Ould Dada stressed the need for tangible action over mere discussion.
Mamadou Diallo of the International Union for Conservation of Nature highlighted the critical role Africa’s natural heritage plays in sustaining its economy and communities. He noted that Africa had hoped COP16 would solidify stronger protections for 30% of its land and seas. Achieving these goals requires political will, especially from northern nations that often prioritize resource extraction over equitable conservation efforts. Diallo urged a united front among African nations to demand justice and sustainable resource management from these countries.
A notable outcome of COP16 was the recognition of indigenous peoples as vital guardians of nature. A decision made on November 1 sought to enhance their status in UN biodiversity negotiations, including acknowledging individuals of African descent as key contributors to conservation initiatives.
Additionally, the conference marked a significant agreement regarding genetic data related to nature. The Colombian presidency proposed the establishment of a dedicated fund for biodiversity, a major request from African nations; however, reluctance from Western nations, including the EU, Switzerland, and Canada, hindered progress.
As the COP16 concluded, delegates left feeling weary and disheartened, pledging to revisit biodiversity issues at future gatherings. With COP29 on climate change set to begin on November 11 in Azerbaijan, Ould Dada reiterated the importance of interconnected policies, stating, “The measures we implement must be linked to one another” to effectively address the challenges facing the continent’s biodiversity.
