By Elbie Sebleh
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN: In an address at the World Leaders Climate Action Summit (COP29) held on November 12, 2024, Liberia’s Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung urged global leaders to take decisive action against climate change.
Speaking before a gathering of distinguished delegates, Vice President Koung expressed gratitude to the Government and People of Azerbaijan for their hospitality and leadership during the summit.
Highlighting the devastating effects of climate change on Liberia, Koung reported that recent flooding had led to loss of life, destruction of properties, and displacement of communities.
He stressed the importance of establishing a Loss and Damage Fund to provide support for nations severely affected by climate-related disasters, calling for a straightforward and accountable process to manage these funds.
Koung also emphasized Liberia’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, referencing the country’s Second Generation Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 2.0), which aims for a 64% reduction based on adequate financing.
He announced that Liberia plans to further enhance its climate ambitions in its upcoming third generation NDC, focusing on biodiversity protection and the integration of climate finance.
The Vice President called on developed nations to increase their contributions to the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance, recognizing the crucial role these funds play in supporting climate initiatives in developing countries.
He also highlighted the establishment of a national climate laboratory at the University of Liberia, aimed at building human resources to tackle climate issues effectively.
In closing, Koung urged collective action and accountability among nations, stating, “If we hold together and speak with one voice, we will fight the nightmare of climate change and global warming and we will succeed.”
His remarks resonated with the urgency of the climate crisis, as leaders from around the world gathered to discuss strategies for a sustainable future.
