By Chernor Alimamy Kamara
As debate at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) centered on Climate Change, President Julius Maada Bio has sought Sierra Leone’s equitable and timely access to climate financing.
The President was debating at this year’s high-level meeting on the theme: "Rebuild trust and reignite global solidarity" at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
In his speech, President Bio said that as Sierra Leone has become a signatory, they eagerly anticipate the ratification and subsequent entry into force of the Marine Biodiversity Agreement to usher in a new era of marine environmental protection, and fair and equitable use of ocean resources. He noted that there must be unfettered access to leverage new climate change adaptation and mitigation technologies and shared knowledge as he said the salvation from the escalating climate change crisis lies in collective wisdom and concerted efforts.
He stated that the collective pursuit of sustainable development confronts the triple planetary crises of pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. But he said, despite contributing minimally to these crises, Sierra Leone remains intensely vulnerable to their repercussions, a reality compounded by limited capacity to cope.
He further stated that meaningful inclusion and inter-generational dialogue are crucial to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He said as the global community has recognized climate change as an existential threat to international peace and security, he welcomed the Secretary-General's convening of the Climate Action Summit and the multidimensional approach adopted to address climate change.
The President went on to note that the National Adaptation Plan, launched in 2018, stands as an embodiment of Sierra Leone’s commitment which was designed to halve the country’s vulnerability by 2030, and underscores risk awareness, regulatory enhancements, institutional empowerment, and gender-responsive adaptation strategies.
He recalled the Nairobi Declaration at the Africa Climate Summit in early September which he said is pivotal in every nation’s collective efforts. He said the Declaration firmly renews commitment to global climate action and sustainable development, infusing it with a distinctive African character.
“We call on the international community to prioritize humanity’s economic and ecological needs for sustainable growth and development,” he said.
Bio pointed out that in today's complex world, the urgent need to rebuild trust and strengthen global unity stands out. He called on Member states to adopt a cooperative approach, set aside individualistic actions, and promote shared progress based on common values.
He stated that solidarity results from hard work, tough decisions, and true empathy that challenges the status quo, saying it is not just a kind-hearted feeling but an active call to commitment, requiring determined and often selfless actions.
“As we deal with disputes of sovereignty and self-determination across the world, we must also resolve to do so with dialogue, exhausting all avenues for peaceful resolution,” he said.
He assured that Sierra Leone steadfastly supports all initiatives and commitments to peace, harmonious coexistence, and mutual recognition of both peoples' rights, underpinned by nonviolence principles. He said their aspiration remains a world where everyone can live in unity and peace regardless of their background.
World leaders gathered in New York for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly to accelerate action on the 2030 Agenda of ending poverty in all forms and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all.
Copyright © 2023 Politico (25/09/23)
