Antalya:Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan called for more accessible climate finance and a fair global carbon market, emphasizing that Africa's energy transition must prioritize access to affordable power.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, President Hassan addressed the COP31 summit in Turkey's southern city of Antalya, advocating for a transparent carbon market mechanism under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. She highlighted the need for fair carbon pricing, equitable benefit sharing, and environmental integrity.

Hassan pointed out that Tanzania, like other developing nations, faces climate challenges such as prolonged droughts, unpredictable rainfall, and rising sea levels, which cost the country an estimated 2% to 3% of its GDP annually. The economy, heavily reliant on natural resources and rain-fed farming, is vulnerable to climate change. Additionally, glaciers on Mount Kilimanjaro have significantly diminished, losing 91% of their surface area since 1912, as reported by UNESCO.

The president outlined three priorities for Tanzania. The first is securing "adequate, predictable, and accessible" climate finance, emphasizing the need for grants, concessional loans, technology transfer, and capacity building. She also noted Africa's potential in generating carbon credits, citing opportunities within Tanzania's transport, waste management, renewable energy sectors, and extensive forest areas.

Hassan's second priority is greater investment in Africa's energy transition, stressing the importance of equitable access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for the continent. Tanzania is working on a National Energy Compact to expand electricity access, especially in rural areas, aiming for 75% electricity connectivity by 2030. Furthermore, a national strategy targets 80% access to clean cooking solutions by 2034.

The president's third priority is inclusive and climate-resilient development, with a focus on innovation, industrialization, and green skills and jobs for young people. She urged COP31 to transition from promises to tangible action and measurable results.