The United Nations System has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Cameroon in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. This commitment was emphasised during the fourth session of the structured political dialogue held in Yaounde on Monday, April 15, where high-level representatives from both the Cameroonian government and the UN System convened.
Led by External Relations Minister Lejeune Mbella Mbella and the interim coordinator of the United Nations Systems in Cameroon, Siaka Coulibaly, the dialogue aimed to explore avenues for bolstering the implementation of climate priorities and mobilizing green financing, aligning with the Cooperation Framework 2022–2026 and Cameroon’s National Development Strategy 2020–2030.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the adoption and signing of a joint resolution, attended by stakeholders such as the African Development Bank. Minister Lejeune Mbella Mbella and UN Resident Coordinator Siaka Coulibaly endorsed the resolution on behalf of their respective institutions.
Siaka Coulibaly, the UN Country Resident Coordinator, expressed appreciation for Cameroon’s engagement at COP28 and reiterated the UN System’s commitment to supporting the country in securing funding for climate change initiatives. “The UN System recognises Cameroon’s stance at COP28… We pledge once more to assist the government in securing funding for climate change,” said Coulibaly.
The dialogue centered on advancing efforts aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal 13, which underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and its impacts. Environmental crises, including heatwaves in northern regions and recurrent floods, underscore the pressing need for action in Cameroon.
In a joint statement, participants emphasised the shared responsibility of protecting the planet and underscored the collaborative efforts between the Cameroonian government and the United Nations System. “The planet is our common home; let’s protect it to preserve our future… Every action counts; let’s protect our environment; let’s act now against climate change,” the statement read.
Through initiatives like river cleaning and concerted efforts to combat climate change, stakeholders aim to mitigate environmental degradation and foster sustainable development in Cameroon.
