Before the official start of COP26 in Glasgow, representatives from organisations across the globe gathered for pre-conference engagements and side events — among them a group of environmental advocates and stakeholders from Africa.
Discussions in the lead-up centred on climate resilience, equitable transitions to clean energy, and the financial mechanisms needed to support green initiatives. With Glasgow set to host some of the most consequential negotiations on climate change, these interactions were vital groundwork for collaboration.
The mood was one of both hope and urgency. Delegates, some attending for the first time, were determined that African voices should be represented at the negotiating table. A common theme was the need for developed nations to meet their financial commitments to help developing countries mitigate and adapt to climate change.
Whether through formal side events or informal gatherings over coffee, the days before COP26 opened were filled with exchanges of ideas, experience and hope — from delegates whose regions and communities are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.