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Malawi ramps up preparations for COP29

As Malawi’s delegation readies itself for the 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) on climate change in Baku, Azerbaijan, the nation has convened a two-day preparatory meeting at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.

Running from 29 – 30 October, 2024, the meeting brings together government officials, stakeholders, and climate advocates to define the country’s priorities and formulate a unified position. Chairperson of the meeting, Evans Njewa, emphasized the importance of the gathering, saying, “This meeting is crucial in finalizing Malawi’s position and setting out the issues we intend to defend at COP29.”

Njewa outlined three primary objectives of the gathering.

“Firstly, this is an opportunity to finalise Malawi’s country position on climate action. Secondly, it allows our delegates to become familiar with the COP29 agenda, understanding the key issues that will be tabled. Lastly, we’re conducting capacity-building training on diplomacy and negotiation skills to strengthen our voice at the conference,” Njewa explained.

According to Njewa, the strategic preparation is essential as Malawi seeks to present its stance on climate resilience and sustainability effectively. He said one of the key issues Malawi will address at COP29 is climate financing, particularly advocating for accessible funding to combat climate impacts without burdening the nation with debt.

“We need climate financing that is accessible, scaled to our needs, and composed primarily of public funds, not loans,” Njewa stressed. He pointed out Malawi’s minimal contribution to global carbon emissions, emphasizing that financing should align with the country’s low emission profile and vulnerability to climate-related disasters such as droughts and floods.

The Loss and Damage Fund, established to address the adverse impacts of climate change in vulnerable nations, also stands as a priority.

“We urge developed countries to fully capitalise this fund so that countries like Malawi can access it in times of need,” Njewa explained. In addition, Malawi is pushing for the finalisation of rules on carbon markets under the Paris Agreement, aiming to ensure that both communities and the government benefit from carbon trading initiatives.

Malawi’s delegation will advocate for climate-resilient agriculture, food security, and adaptation measures under the global stocktake process.

“Our economic stability heavily relies on agriculture, so securing climate-resilient solutions for this sector is a top priority,” Njewa remarked.

He concluded by highlighting Malawi’s commitment to limiting global temperature rises.

He said, “We’re joining the global community in striving to keep temperature rise well below 1.5 degrees Celsius, not only for our nation’s future but for the well-being of the planet.”

The two-day meeting is expected to equip Malawi’s representatives with the negotiation skills and insights needed to make an impactful contribution at COP29.
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