Belem, Brazil – November 12, 2025
The United Republic of Tanzania, speaking on behalf of the African Group, has called for stronger global commitment to climate finance, adaptation, and equitable action as the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) opened in Belem, Brazil.
Delivering the statement at the joint opening plenary, Tanzania reaffirmed Africa’s support for the COP30 Presidency led by Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago and thanked Brazil for hosting what it called a “historic gathering” in the birthplace of the Rio Conventions.
The African Group said COP30 must move beyond rhetoric and deliver concrete guidance on climate finance, which it termed a “responsibility and obligation,” not an option. It urged developed nations to scale up grant-based and concessional financing to support the implementation of developing countries’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), and long-term strategies.
“Belem must deliver concrete guidance and decisions to operationalise finance obligations under both the Convention and the Paris Agreement,” the statement read, emphasizing that predictable and accessible financing is key to bridging the implementation gap.
Adaptation and Loss & Damage at the Forefront
Highlighting the urgent need for adaptation across Africa, the Group described it as an “existential priority,” calling for tangible indicators under the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) backed by real financial commitments.
On loss and damage, the Group welcomed the launch of the Barbados Implementation Plan under the new Loss and Damage Fund but called for its substantial capitalization, noting that projected economic losses in 2025 alone could reach up to USD 937 billion. “Belem must advance political support for a significant capitalization of the Fund,” it said.
Just Transition and Technology Transfer
The statement stressed that Africa’s vast natural capital — from carbon sinks to critical minerals — must translate into sustainable benefits through international support for just transition pathways. The Group urged that the Just Transition Work Programme be transformed from a dialogue into action that expands clean energy access, particularly for the over 900 million Africans without clean cooking solutions.
On technology, the African Group expressed concern over slow progress in negotiations and called for urgent adoption of the Technology Implementation Programme and review of the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN).
Push for Inclusivity and Gender Equity
The Group also pressed for stronger transparency mechanisms, capacity building for developing countries under the Enhanced Transparency Framework, and adoption of a well-financed Gender Action Plan.
In a notable announcement, the African Group endorsed Ethiopia’s bid to host the “African COP” in 2027 (COP32), reaffirming the continent’s commitment to driving global climate ambition.
Concluding its statement, Tanzania said the African Group remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateralism and equity under the UNFCCC framework.
“Belem must deliver decisions that reflect the urgent need to address climate challenges and respond to the needs of our people,” the statement concluded.
