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By the West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF)

As the world converges in Baku for COP 29, the urgency of addressing climate change has never been more apparent. For regions like West Africa—where the impacts of climate change are already being felt in the form of rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, desertification, and floods—the need for meaningful and accessible climate finance has become a defining issue.

At COP 29, the global community must not only reaffirm its commitment to combat climate change but also ensure that the financial resources needed to support a just and green transition are available, equitable, and accessible to the most vulnerable regions. West Africa stands at a pivotal moment, with both a significant opportunity to leapfrog to green growth and the imperative to address its pressing climate vulnerabilities. But for this transition to become a reality, West Africa needs climate finance—now more than ever.

The Climate Challenge in West Africa

West Africa is one of the most climate-vulnerable regions in the world. The Sahel, in particular, is experiencing severe desertification, while coastal countries face the threat of rising sea levels. Agriculture, which is the lifeblood of many West African economies, is under immense pressure due to unpredictable weather patterns and increasing temperatures. From droughts in the north to flooding in the south, climate change is already deepening existing vulnerabilities, exacerbating poverty, and putting the future of millions of people at risk.

At the same time, West Africa has an enormous potential to lead in the transition to a green, sustainable economy. The region is rich in renewable energy resources, from solar in the Sahel to wind along the coast, and hydropower in many countries. The green transition offers the chance to create jobs, improve food security, and reduce the region’s reliance on fossil fuels. But this transformation will not happen without significant investments.

The Need for Climate Finance

1. Financing Adaptation and Resilience:

West African countries need substantial investments to adapt to the inevitable impacts of climate change. This includes financing for climate-resilient infrastructure, such as flood barriers, drought-resistant agricultural systems, and early warning systems for natural disasters. Adaptation is especially critical for countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, where extreme weather events threaten the livelihoods of millions of people.

2. Financing Mitigation Efforts:

As the world transitions to a low-carbon economy, West Africa must also invest in green technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable industries to mitigate the impacts of climate change. But the reality is that many West African nations face financial constraints that make it difficult to invest in the technologies needed to shift away from fossil fuels. Climate finance, both from public and private sources, must help fill this gap.

3. Climate Justice and Equitable Financing:

West Africa is home to some of the world’s most vulnerable populations, including women, rural farmers, and indigenous communities, who are already bearing the brunt of climate change. The region must not only receive financial support to address the impacts of climate change but also ensure that the resources are distributed equitably. It is critical that financing mechanisms prioritize the needs of those most affected by climate change, ensuring that the most marginalized groups benefit from climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

The Role of International Cooperation and Solidarity

COP 29 provides a platform for governments, international organizations, and civil society to come together to chart a path forward. For West Africa, one of the key outcomes of COP 29 must be the delivery of financial resources that match the scale of the climate challenge. However, for this to happen, there are several critical issues that need to be addressed:

1. Mobilizing Adequate and Predictable Climate Finance:

We must move beyond the rhetoric of climate financing and push for real, tangible financial commitments. The $100 billion per year climate finance pledge made by developed nations remains unmet. The promised funds must be delivered, and these commitments must be predictable, transparent, and directed towards the most vulnerable regions. The West African region should not be left behind in the global effort to address climate change.

2. Private Sector Engagement:

While public climate finance remains crucial, the private sector also has a significant role to play in West Africa’s green transition. However, to attract private investment, West African governments must create a conducive environment by ensuring that climate-friendly policies, regulations, and incentives are in place. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green infrastructure will be vital for achieving a green economy in the region.

3. Simplifying Access to Finance:

One of the most significant barriers to accessing climate finance for West African countries is the complexity of current funding mechanisms. Many governments and civil society organizations struggle to navigate the labyrinth of funding sources, which often come with cumbersome application processes and restrictive criteria. COP 29 should call for the simplification of climate finance access, ensuring that funds reach local governments, communities, and organizations that are best placed to implement climate solutions.

WACSOF’s Call to Action

At COP 29, West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF) calls for stronger solidarity from the international community, developed nations, and the private sector to ensure that the financial resources needed for the green transition in West Africa are mobilized and delivered. We call for:

• An increase in the scale of financing for adaptation and mitigation in the region, including substantial commitments to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Adaptation Fund.
• Enhanced transparency in the allocation of climate funds, ensuring that funds are used effectively and reach those who need them most—particularly marginalized groups, women, and local communities.
• A strengthened focus on capacity building in West Africa, so that local governments and civil society organizations are equipped to access, manage, and deploy climate finance effectively.
• Private sector mobilization through the creation of innovative financing models, including green bonds, impact investing, and blended finance initiatives, to unlock private capital for climate action in the region.

West Africa’s path to a green future requires more than just financial resources; it requires a commitment to climate justice, solidarity, and cooperation. It is only through a collective effort—one where international partners, governments, the private sector, and civil society come together—that we can ensure a sustainable, equitable future for the people of West Africa.

As COP 29 continues its deliberations in Baku, WACSOF urges all stakeholders to recognize the urgency of the climate crisis in West Africa and to deliver on the financial promises that will make the region’s green transition possible.

Conclusion: A Green and Just Future for West Africa

The clock is ticking, and the impacts of climate change are becoming harder to ignore. But with solidarity for a green world, there is hope. By mobilizing the necessary climate finance for West Africa’s green transition, we can ensure that the region not only survives but thrives in a climate-constrained world. COP 29 presents an opportunity for the global community to act decisively. West Africa is ready to take its place as a leader in the green transition, but it cannot do so alone. The world must stand in solidarity to make this vision a reality.

Human rights awareness is vital to advancing social justice, peace, and sustainable development in West Africa. As countries across the region work to promote civil liberties, they face a range of challenges, including political instability, social inequalities, and limited resources. These challenges hinder the promotion and protection of fundamental rights, making it difficult for many to access education, healthcare, and freedom of expression. This article explores the key obstacles to human rights awareness in West Africa and highlights pathways to overcome these barriers, paving the way for a future where every citizen’s rights are respected and upheld.

The Current State of Human Rights in West Africa

West African countries have made strides in advancing human rights through the adoption of international treaties and regional agreements, such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. These frameworks provide a foundation for ensuring rights to life, freedom from discrimination, and access to basic services. Despite these legal frameworks, however, many citizens in West Africa continue to face significant barriers to accessing their rights due to social, economic, and political challenges.

Human rights organizations, both local and international, play a critical role in monitoring abuses and promoting awareness. However, without broader engagement and systemic reforms, these efforts remain limited in their impact. Increasing human rights awareness is not just about educating individuals on their rights; it requires comprehensive efforts to address societal and structural factors that contribute to rights violations.

Key Challenges to Human Rights Awareness in West Africa

1. Political Instability and Weak Governance Political instability in some West African nations has created an environment where human rights violations occur with little accountability. Military coups, civil conflicts, and contested elections in countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea disrupt governance structures and often lead to the suspension of democratic institutions. In such environments, human rights are frequently sidelined, and citizens may be fearful of asserting their rights due to the risk of retaliation. Additionally, weak governance limits the effectiveness of legal and institutional frameworks designed to protect human rights. When governments lack accountability mechanisms or are influenced by corruption, citizens may feel powerless to seek justice or speak out against abuses. For human rights awareness to grow, stable and accountable governance structures are essential.
2. Limited Access to Education and Information Education is a cornerstone of human rights awareness, yet in many parts of West Africa, access to education remains limited, particularly in rural areas. High illiteracy rates make it difficult for citizens to access information on their rights and understand how to advocate for themselves. Without basic education, individuals are more vulnerable to exploitation and discrimination, as they may not know how to recognize or challenge rights abuses. Additionally, language barriers can impede human rights awareness efforts. West Africa is home to hundreds of languages, and in some communities, information on rights is available only in official languages like English or French. Efforts to increase awareness must therefore prioritize local languages to ensure inclusivity.
3. Cultural and Social Norms Cultural norms and traditional practices play a significant role in shaping attitudes toward human rights in West Africa. In some cases, these norms may conflict with international human rights standards, particularly in areas related to gender equality, child rights, and freedom of expression. Practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and discrimination against marginalized groups are deeply rooted in certain societies, making it challenging to promote human rights that oppose these practices. Effective human rights awareness campaigns must consider cultural contexts and work with community leaders to advocate for change. Community-based approaches that respect cultural identities while promoting human rights are more likely to foster acceptance and sustainable shifts in societal norms.
4. Economic Inequality and Poverty Poverty is both a cause and consequence of human rights violations in West Africa. Economic hardship limits access to basic services, including healthcare, clean water, and education, which are fundamental human rights. When people lack the resources to meet their basic needs, they are more vulnerable to exploitation and less likely to have the capacity to advocate for their rights. Economic inequality also contributes to social stratification, which can lead to discrimination and exclusion of marginalized groups. For example, women, youth, and ethnic minorities often face compounded challenges, as they are disproportionately affected by poverty and lack representation in decision-making processes. Addressing economic disparities is therefore essential to creating an environment where human rights are respected and accessible to all.
5. Threats to Freedom of Expression and Media Freedom of expression and access to unbiased information are essential for human rights awareness, but these freedoms are under threat in many parts of West Africa. Journalists and activists who expose human rights abuses or criticize government actions often face harassment, imprisonment, or violence. In some countries, governments have enacted restrictive laws or imposed censorship, limiting citizens’ ability to access independent information. Without a free and vibrant media, it becomes difficult for citizens to stay informed about their rights and understand how to protect them. Civil society organizations and international partners can play a role in advocating for press freedom and protecting journalists who work to inform the public on human rights issues.

Pathways to Strengthening Human Rights Awareness in West Africa

1. Enhancing Civic Education and Community-Based Programs Civic education programs that emphasize human rights can empower individuals to understand and advocate for their rights. Schools, community centers, and religious organizations can serve as platforms for educating citizens on human rights principles and how they apply to daily life. By incorporating human rights education into school curricula and organizing community workshops, governments and civil society organizations can build a foundation for greater awareness.
2. Supporting Legal Aid and Advocacy Services Access to legal aid is crucial for individuals seeking justice for rights abuses, particularly those who cannot afford private legal representation. Expanding legal aid services and supporting organizations that offer pro bono legal assistance can help marginalized populations assert their rights and hold violators accountable. In addition, advocacy groups can work to raise awareness about human rights and provide resources to individuals and communities facing rights violations.
3. Promoting Inclusive Economic Policies Economic policies that address inequality and create opportunities for marginalized communities can significantly enhance human rights awareness and protection. Programs that promote job creation, access to credit, and entrepreneurship—especially for women and youth—can help reduce poverty and empower individuals to participate actively in their societies. Inclusive economic growth enables individuals to gain independence and fosters a greater sense of agency, which is critical to advocating for rights.
4. Strengthening Regional Collaboration and International Support Regional organizations like ECOWAS and the African Union (AU) are vital in promoting human rights awareness and enforcement across West Africa. By developing joint initiatives, monitoring rights abuses, and advocating for policy reforms, these organizations can support national efforts to protect human rights. International support from bodies such as the United Nations and various non-governmental organizations can provide resources, training, and oversight to ensure that human rights are prioritized in policy and practice.
5. Leveraging Technology and Social Media for Awareness Social media and digital platforms have become powerful tools for raising awareness about human rights issues. Campaigns that use digital platforms can reach broader audiences, allowing activists to share information, mobilize communities, and demand accountability. In recent years, platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and WhatsApp have been instrumental in exposing rights abuses and organizing grassroots movements. Expanding digital access and training citizens in media literacy can strengthen human rights awareness and encourage civic engagement.

Conclusion

Human rights awareness in West Africa is essential for building a just, equitable, and prosperous society. Although challenges such as political instability, poverty, and restrictive social norms persist, opportunities to promote awareness through education, economic empowerment, and regional collaboration offer hope. By investing in these strategies, governments, civil society organizations, and international partners can work together to ensure that every West African citizen understands their rights and has the support needed to protect them.

A human rights-conscious West Africa is one where all individuals—regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status—can live with dignity, equality, and freedom. Through sustained efforts and collective action, it is possible to create a society where human rights are not only recognized on paper but upheld in every aspect of life.

As West Africa seeks to chart a path toward sustainable development, the transition to a green economy—one that fosters economic growth while protecting environmental resources—has become an urgent priority. In this context, the involvement of youth and women is vital. Representing large demographics in the region, their engagement offers a pathway not only to economic empowerment but also to achieving social equity and environmental sustainability. This article examines recent efforts to involve young people and women in the green economy, reflecting on initiatives such as those led by ECOWAS and UN Women, and explores the roles that civil society organizations (CSOs) can play in mobilizing youth and women to engage in eco-friendly enterprises, technology, and policy advocacy.

Defining the Green Economy and Its Importance

A green economy is one that reduces environmental risks and ecological scarcities while promoting social equity and economic growth. Unlike traditional growth models, it emphasizes sustainable resource management, clean energy, and minimizing environmental impact. For West Africa—a region rich in natural resources but vulnerable to the effects of climate change—transitioning to a green economy is essential for safeguarding its ecosystems and ensuring economic resilience for future generations.

Recent Efforts to Engage Youth and Women in the Green Economy

Youth and women are key drivers of change in West Africa, with the region’s governments and development organizations increasingly recognizing their potential in fostering a sustainable economy. Recent initiatives have focused on capacity-building, entrepreneurship, and policy inclusion, with notable efforts led by ECOWAS and UN Women.

ECOWAS Green Economy Initiatives

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched multiple programs aimed at integrating young people and women into the green economy. Recognizing the centrality of gender and youth empowerment in sustainable development, ECOWAS promotes green entrepreneurship by offering training programs, microfinancing opportunities, and access to green technologies. Through its partnership with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), ECOWAS has supported initiatives that train young entrepreneurs in renewable energy and waste management, encouraging them to create businesses that benefit both the environment and local communities.

UN Women’s Regional Approach to Green Economy Transition

UN Women, in collaboration with local governments and civil society organizations, has been instrumental in advancing women’s role in the green economy across West Africa. Programs such as the Women’s Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Energy (WESE) initiative provide women with access to training in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly business management. Additionally, UN Women’s advocacy efforts emphasize the importance of gender-inclusive policies that enable women to access green economy jobs and leadership roles, fostering a culture of female participation in sustainable development.

The Role of Civil Society in Mobilizing Youth and Women

Civil society organizations (CSOs) are well-positioned to engage and empower youth and women in the green economy. By providing training, resources, and platforms for policy advocacy, CSOs can enable women and young people to become active participants in West Africa’s sustainable development journey. Their contributions can be organized into several key areas:

1. Eco-Friendly Business Development: CSOs can support the creation of green businesses by providing technical assistance, mentorship, and financing opportunities to young and female entrepreneurs. By partnering with local communities, CSOs can facilitate the establishment of eco-friendly enterprises in areas such as recycling, sustainable fashion, and organic farming. Such businesses contribute to local economies while promoting environmental conservation.
2. Technology and Innovation in Environmental Protection: Youth, especially those with digital skills, are uniquely positioned to lead technological advancements within the green economy. CSOs can support young innovators by offering training in green technologies, such as solar energy, irrigation systems, and digital platforms for sustainable business management. Through competitions and funding initiatives, CSOs can help young people develop innovative solutions that address local environmental challenges and contribute to climate resilience.
3. Policy Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns: Civil society organizations can amplify the voices of young people and women in policy discussions, ensuring their representation in green economy frameworks. By organizing workshops, seminars, and campaigns, CSOs can raise awareness about sustainable practices and engage communities in environmental issues. Advocacy efforts can also focus on securing government support for green jobs, educational programs, and incentives for eco-friendly businesses.

Case Studies and Success Stories

Several initiatives in West Africa exemplify the success of youth and women’s engagement in the green economy:

• Nigeria’s Youth Clean Energy Program: This program, run by the Nigerian government in partnership with local CSOs, trains young entrepreneurs in clean energy production, including solar installation and maintenance. Many participants have gone on to establish their businesses, providing clean energy solutions to underserved communities while creating jobs and reducing carbon emissions.
• Ghana’s Women in Waste Recycling Initiative: Spearheaded by local CSOs and supported by UN Women, this initiative trains women in waste management and recycling, providing them with business skills and access to markets for recycled products. The program has not only improved waste management in Ghana but also created employment opportunities for women, contributing to local economies and environmental protection.

These examples highlight the potential of targeted programs to empower youth and women, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable economy while addressing critical social and environmental needs.

Challenges and the Way Forward

Despite the potential of youth and women’s participation in the green economy, several challenges remain:

• Financial Barriers: Access to funding remains a significant barrier for women and young entrepreneurs in the green economy. Financing eco-friendly startups and technologies often requires substantial capital, which many lack. Creating more accessible funding mechanisms, such as microcredit and venture capital tailored to green projects, is essential.
• Limited Access to Green Technology and Training: In rural areas, lack of access to training and green technologies hampers the engagement of youth and women. Expanding training programs and improving access to eco-friendly technologies can help overcome this barrier, making it easier for these groups to enter the green economy.
• Policy Gaps: Although there is increasing support for the green economy, many countries in West Africa still lack comprehensive policies to support youth and women in this sector. Policymakers need to integrate gender and youth considerations into national green economy strategies, providing incentives for sustainable business and promoting green job creation.

Conclusion

The participation of youth and women in West Africa’s green economy transition is crucial to achieving sustainable development. Efforts by ECOWAS, UN Women, and civil society organizations demonstrate the potential of these groups to drive change, creating economic opportunities and fostering environmental stewardship. However, further policy support, financing solutions, and access to green technologies are needed to unlock the full potential of youth and women as agents of sustainable development.

By investing in programs and policies that promote eco-friendly business development, technological innovation, and policy advocacy, West Africa can ensure that its green economy transition is inclusive and effective. The active engagement of young people and women will be vital to building a resilient and equitable future—one that supports economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection for generations to come.

In recent years, food security has emerged as a critical issue in West Africa, a region where agriculture is both a livelihood and a cultural mainstay. Amid challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and socio-economic volatility, West African countries are increasingly exploring sustainable agricultural solutions that can enhance food security. One of the most promising approaches is the adoption of agroecology and organic farming—methods that emphasize ecological balance, biodiversity, and sustainable practices. This article examines the potential of agroecology and organic farming to strengthen food security in West Africa, with reflections on insights from the recent Regional Forum on Agroecology and Organic Farming.

Agroecology and Organic Farming: Definitions and Principles

Agroecology integrates ecological and social principles within farming practices, encouraging biodiversity, recycling of nutrients, and use of local resources to create sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. Agroecological methods often consider the entire farming ecosystem, including plants, animals, soil, and humans, and emphasize adaptability to local contexts.

Organic farming, meanwhile, focuses on avoiding synthetic inputs like pesticides and fertilizers, relying instead on organic matter, crop rotation, and composting to improve soil health and crop resilience. Although similar to agroecology, organic farming adheres to certified standards and restricts the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Together, these approaches foster a balance between productive and sustainable agriculture, offering pathways to food security and resilience against climate change—two pressing concerns for West Africa.

Reflections from the Regional Forum on Agroecology and Organic Farming

The recent Regional Forum on Agroecology and Organic Farming, which brought together policymakers, farmers, researchers, and civil society organizations from across West Africa, provided a platform to discuss these approaches’ potential for the region. Key themes from the forum included:

1. Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Attendees underscored the urgency of adopting sustainable practices as essential for environmental conservation and long-term food production. Agroecology and organic farming were emphasized as methods that not only protect the soil but also promote water conservation and reduce dependence on synthetic inputs, which are often expensive and environmentally damaging.
2. Food Sovereignty: Many speakers highlighted food sovereignty as a goal beyond food security. Food sovereignty emphasizes local control over food production and distribution, empowering communities to make decisions about their agricultural practices, inputs, and outputs. The forum proposed that food sovereignty could be achieved through agroecology and organic farming, reducing dependence on external resources and improving local food access.
3. Climate Resilience: West Africa is particularly vulnerable to climate change, with its agriculture-dependent economy and variable climate patterns. Agroecology and organic farming practices, which improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, were proposed as effective strategies to enhance the resilience of local farming systems to extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods.

The Role of Civil Society Groups in Supporting Farmers

Civil society groups play a crucial role in bridging the gap between sustainable practices and farmers. They can provide the resources, education, and policy advocacy needed to implement agroecology and organic farming widely in West Africa. Their support is essential in several areas:

1. Education and Training: Farmers often lack access to information on sustainable practices or resources to adopt them. Civil society groups can provide training on agroecology and organic farming techniques, helping farmers understand methods such as crop diversification, intercropping, and soil regeneration. Programs that combine indigenous knowledge with new techniques can help farmers adopt sustainable methods that suit their local contexts.
2. Policy Advocacy: Civil society organizations are well-positioned to advocate for policies that support sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty. By engaging with policymakers, these groups can promote subsidies for organic inputs, incentivize agroecological practices, and lobby for restrictions on harmful pesticides and GMOs. Advocacy can also support research and development in organic agriculture, which is often underfunded.
3. Access to Resources and Market Development: Sustainable farming can be cost-prohibitive for smallholders, who may lack access to the necessary tools, seeds, and organic inputs. Civil society groups can mobilize funding, create cooperatives, and facilitate access to markets for organic products. Ensuring that farmers have access to markets is key to making sustainable farming economically viable and ensuring that the broader community benefits from locally-grown organic produce.

Case Studies and Success Stories

Several West African countries have implemented initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture. For instance:

• Senegal’s Organic Agriculture Movement: Through the Ecological Organic Agriculture Initiative, Senegal has witnessed a rise in organic farming as farmers increasingly shift to pesticide-free, eco-friendly techniques. This initiative, supported by civil society organizations, has empowered communities to enhance their food security through sustainable practices.
• Agroecological Villages in Burkina Faso: These villages focus on agroecology principles to restore degraded lands, preserve biodiversity, and improve food sovereignty. The project, driven by local and international organizations, emphasizes training farmers in sustainable practices and developing community-based agricultural models that can be replicated across the region.

These success stories highlight the feasibility and benefits of agroecology and organic farming in West Africa, demonstrating the potential of these approaches to strengthen food security.

Challenges and the Way Forward

While the potential benefits of agroecology and organic farming are clear, there are challenges to their widespread adoption:

• Economic Barriers: Transitioning to organic or agroecological methods can be expensive, especially for smallholder farmers who may not have the financial means to experiment with new methods.
• Market Access and Certification: Farmers may struggle to find markets that value and pay premiums for organic products. Certification processes, often costly and complex, can also be barriers to entry for small-scale farmers.
• Policy Support: In many West African countries, policies still favor conventional agriculture, with subsidies for synthetic inputs and minimal support for organic practices. Without policy reform, the spread of sustainable practices may remain limited.

To overcome these challenges, West African governments, civil society organizations, and international partners must work collaboratively to establish supportive policies, reduce financial barriers, and invest in market development for organic and agroecological products. By creating an enabling environment, West African countries can harness the benefits of agroecology and organic farming to achieve a more sustainable, resilient, and food-secure future.

Conclusion

As West Africa continues to grapple with issues of food security and climate vulnerability, agroecology and organic farming offer viable pathways toward sustainable, resilient agriculture. Insights from the recent Regional Forum underscore the importance of these practices, not only in boosting food security but also in achieving food sovereignty and climate resilience. With the support of civil society groups, policy reforms, and international cooperation, West Africa can pave the way toward an agricultural system that nourishes its people while respecting and preserving its environment. The role of agroecology and organic farming is not just a solution to current challenges but a blueprint for a sustainable future.