Nairobi, 11 November 2021 (TDI): China is helping Kenya and other African states to achieve carbon neutrality. It is on the frontlines to fight global climate change. The capital and technical flows, and knowledge transfer to the continent by China are facilitating the process.
Africa’s Transformation to Sustainable Development
With the substantial help of China, Africa is transitioning to a low carbon and sustainable development route. Climate change is affecting the livelihoods and vital ecosystems in Africa. According to an expert, it is the largest partner of Africa in terms of foreign direct investment; with that kind of support, the continent’s pursuit for climate resilience is rekindled.
China’s support for Green Transition
Although the scarcity of funding and technological bottlenecks have hindered Africa’s green transition, the continent is trying to adopt renewable energy programs with China’s help. It has been the foremost ally in the continent’s ambition to shift to wind and solar energy. China upgraded solar capacity in Africa from 739 to 5,500 megawatts, between 2009-2018. It also installed wind energy programs which jumped from 108 to 6,100 megawatts, during the same time.
Chinese Investment in Kenya
The 50-megawatt solar plant built in Kenya’s eastern county of Garissa has increased the country’s renewable energy to 93 percent. The progressive actions adopted by China include funds to support biodiversity conservation and the commitment to put an end to financing coal plants. This will reinforce climate response in the global south.
Forum on China-Africa Cooperation
The upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Dakar, Senegal will provide a platform to explore innovative ways the long-standing associates can renew the climate action.
