WINDHOEK: Namibia faces a substantial financial challenge in addressing climate change, with an estimated need for US dollars 15 billion for climate adaptation and mitigation. This information was shared by Alfredo Hengari, the press secretary in the Office of the President, during an information session on Thursday about the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) and the year-end review. Hengari highlighted Namibia’s recognition as an emerging green energy superpower in Africa at COP28, a message reinforced by President Hage Geingob. The president emphasized Namibia’s readiness and the commencement of green hydrogen projects.

According to Hengari, the sixth report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change identified Namibia as one of the Southern African countries severely affected by climate change, particularly impacting agricultural production and food security. The Namibian government has allocated over N.dollars 600 million for climate-related efforts and has submitted nationally determined contributions. The United States government has pledged U.S. dollars 3 billion to address the climate emergency, with Namibia having access to these funds, though they are not specifically allocated to the country. COP28, which took place from November 30 to December 12, 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, focused on global efforts to manage and prepare for climate change.