I had the honour of attending the meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), chaired by H.E. President William Ruto in his capacity as the Chair of CAHOSCC, on the sidelines of UNGA 81 in New York. 🇺🇸 CAHOSCC brings heads of state together to provide political direction for Africa’s climate priorities. Ahead of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, a central issue was adaptation finance: securing resources countries can access to prepare for climate impacts, and ensuring commitments already made are delivered. This matters now because a potentially strong El Niño could bring severe floods and droughts to parts of Africa, putting harvests, water supplies and livelihoods at risk. At the same time, geopolitical tensions are putting pressure on the funding available to prepare. Adaptation finance can help countries strengthen early warning systems, protect water sources and support farmers before those losses occur. The discussion also addressed the wider transition: expanding energy access, creating decent jobs and ensuring climate finance does not add to Africa’s debt burden. As COP31 approaches, and with COP32 set to take place in Ethiopia, Africa has an important opportunity to advance a united position and press for decisions that make a difference beyond the negotiating room. #UNGA81