WINDHOEK: With the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28) approaching, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Anna Shigwedha, stressed the importance of international cooperation in combating climate change. Shigwedha’s remarks came during her keynote address at the SASSCAL Climate Change Dialogue Namibia Conference in Windhoek on Tuesday.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), Shigwedha pointed out that climate change, largely caused by industrialized economies, presents a critical crisis. She noted that the upcoming COP 28 is a pivotal moment for Africa, as the world prepares to compensate the continent through climate change laws and a damage fund. The SASSCAL conference, she mentioned, is a key platform for government ministries, experts, and stakeholders to discuss climate issues relevant to national policies.

The Deputy Minister underscored the importance of sustaining institutions like SASSCAL (Southern African Sciences Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management) and the need for expanded regional collaboration. She praised Namibia’s commitment through the signing and ratification of the SASSCAL treaty and urged other member states to do the same.

Shigwedha revealed plans for the construction of the SASSCAL headquarters, with the government allocating N.dollars 36 million for the project, expected to begin at the end of this quarter or in 2024.

Furthermore, she highlighted Namibia’s advancements in renewable energy, particularly in green hydrogen. She mentioned the Daures Green Hydrogen Village, the first of its kind in Africa, as a significant milestone. This project, overseen by SASSCAL, is part of a joint communiqué between Namibia and Germany.