By Buba Gagigo
The 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, commonly referred to by the acronym COP27, concluded in the Egyptian city of Sharm EL Sheikh. Writing on her Facebook page at the end of the summit, Mayor of Banjul and RAFELA-Africa President, Rohey Malick Lowe, says she is happy with the progress during the conference, especially, on ACE and Gender issues.
“As the curtains close for COP27 in Sharm EL Sheikh, Egypt, I can proudly say that I am happy with the progress made, especially on ACE and Gender,”
The Banjul Mayor lamented that although participation of women in climate decision-making processes continues to dismal, financing gender-responsive climate adaptation was highlighted in their conversations.
“With the impacts of climate change disproportionately affecting women and youth, it is clear that we cannot achieve effective climate adaptation without addressing gender inequality and the challenges Youth face. I look forward to the implementation of the Gender Action Plan.
“Seeing the participation of local governments in the climate discussions was quite important, given how we work directly with people in our municipalities and cities. For sustainable climate-resilient development, bringing all stakeholders will ensure collective climate action,” she continued.
The RAFELA-Africa President also acknowledged the Government of Egypt for their warm hospitality.
“We enjoyed our stay in Sharm EL Sheikh. I also wish to congratulate the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change under whose auspices the COP27 was organised. As we implement the recommendations through policies and actions, I hope this will go a long way to impact humanity positively, especially the lives of vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and children,” she concluded.