The World Green Economy Organization supports 11 African cities

Yesterday, the World Green Economy Organization announced its support for 11 African cities within the Carbon Neutral Cities Initiative, in partnership with the United African Cities and Local Governments Organization. This came during the keynote speech delivered by the President of the World Green Economy Organization, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, in the organization’s pavilion in the Blue Zone at Baku Stadium, in the presence of the Secretary-General of the United Cities and Local Governments in Africa, Jean-Pierre Mbassi.

In his speech on this occasion, Al Tayer stressed the importance of urgently addressing climate change, saying: “Today, we are not only launching an initiative, but we are announcing the start of a process that will reshape the ways cities successfully confront the climate crisis in various parts of the African continent, and I am pleased to announce support for… The World Green Economy Organization for 11 African cities within the Carbon Neutral Cities Initiative, which was launched during the World Green Economy Summit in 2023, in partnership with the United African Cities and Local Governments Organization.. Together, we work to stimulate change, and empower African cities to become role models for climate action, Leading the way towards carbon neutrality.”

Al Tayer added: “In a world witnessing an acceleration in the pace of urban growth, cities contribute more than 70% of carbon emissions globally, but at the same time they enjoy a unique position that qualifies them to lead the process of change, and African cities, especially in emerging regions, have enormous potential.” To lead the green economy agenda at the global level, and contribute to achieving our common goals of sustainability, climate change is no longer just a future threat, but has become a current reality affecting millions, especially in the most vulnerable communities across the continent of Africa. Temperatures and the challenges associated with climate change require us to take urgent and specific measures, and the Carbon Neutral Cities Initiative comes as a response from the World Green Economy Organization to this urgent need, and through our partnership with the United African Cities and Local Governments Organization, we are committed to supporting African cities in reducing their carbon footprint and developing their infrastructure. Sustainable infrastructure, and promoting innovations that benefit both humans and the environment.”

Al Tayer continued: “The partnership between the World Green Economy Organization and the United African Cities and Local Governments Organization aims to address the specific challenges facing the 11 cities in their journey towards carbon neutrality. Through this initiative, the World Green Economy Organization will provide integrated support specifically designed to meet the unique needs of each city on the planet.” Our approach focuses on building the capabilities of city leaders and enhancing their expertise by relying on the latest tools and best practices in the field of sustainable urban planning and climate resilience, which are essential to achieving this goal. We will also provide technical guidance in the areas of sustainable growth, low-carbon infrastructure, energy efficiency, and mobility. Moreover, we will help cities enhance their resilience by supporting nature-based solutions, sustainable water management, and disaster risk reduction strategies.”

Memorandum of Understanding with Palau to promote a green economy

The World Green Economy Organization signed a memorandum of understanding with the government of the Republic of Palau, during the activities of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), in confirmation of its commitment to advancing the green economy and supporting climate action at the global level.

The memorandum of understanding was signed by the President of the Republic of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr., and the President of the World Green Economy Organization, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, with the aim of promoting low-carbon solutions and protecting natural resources, with a special focus on protecting the oceans, which are of vital importance to Palau as one of the leading small island developing states. Through this partnership, the World Green Economy Organization and Palau aim to develop a guide for sustainable growth that takes into account national and regional goals, which ultimately leads to an influential contribution to global sustainability efforts.