By Precious D. Freeman
Vice President Jeremiah Koung along with other attendees from the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) delivered an impassioned speech at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) emphasizing the need for global collaboration to combat climate change, particularly for vulnerable nations like Liberia.
Bringing together representatives from nearly 200 countries to address the escalating climate crisis, representing Liberian President Joseph Boakai, Vice President Koung expressed gratitude for Azerbaijan’s warm hospitality and leadership in hosting COP29.
He spotlighted the climate challenges facing Liberia, pointing to recent flooding that has led to the tragic loss of lives, destruction of property, and mass displacement.
“This is why COP29 must set the basis for the Loss and Damage Fund,” Vice President Koung stated, advocating for a funding process that avoids bureaucracy and swiftly supports countries affected by climate-related disasters.
He also urged action on Articles 6.2, 6.4, and 6.8 of the Paris Agreement to advance carbon market and non-carbon market mechanisms, aligning with the Africa Group’s goals.
Vice President Koung highlighted Liberia’s commitment to climate action, referencing the nation’s Second Generation Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 2.0) launched in 2021.
This plan aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 64% with adequate financial support.
He announced that Liberia is formulating a third-generation NDC focused on biodiversity, mangrove conservation, freshwater ecosystems, child rights, and human mobility.
This expanded plan underscores Liberia’s dedication to a comprehensive, sustainable approach.
To achieve these goals, Koung called for increased climate finance contributions from developed countries, urging them to fulfill their commitments to the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance.
Liberia’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), led by Executive Director Ansu Dulleh, also took a prominent role at COP29.
Dulleh, joined by Financial Comptroller Elvin Frank and other high-ranking officials, emphasized Liberia’s urgent need for climate adaptation support.
“Our presence at COP29 underscores our commitment to a sustainable future for Liberia and the global community,” Dulleh stated, pressing for meaningful international commitments to aid countries like Liberia, which face severe climate threats despite minimal contributions to global emissions.
This year’s COP29 agenda prioritizes climate finance, with a focus on supporting vulnerable countries in building resilience, reducing emissions, and adapting to increasingly severe weather events.
COP29 represents a pivotal moment in assessing progress toward the 2015 Paris Agreement goals, as global data indicates that the world is falling short of its target to limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
With stakes higher than ever, COP29 attendees are tasked with turning promises into actionable steps and strengthening international cooperation.
Vice President Koung concluded, “If we hold together and speak with one voice, we will fight the nightmare of climate change, and we will succeed.”
Liberia’s strong advocacy at COP29 reflects its commitment to ensuring that the voices of climate-vulnerable nations are heard and underscores the urgent need for global solidarity in the fight against climate change.
