The climate change policy debate has intensified as a result of several international developments. Potential opportunities for Africa are explored within the context of multi-lateral policy efforts embodied in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (‘UNFCCC’) and its Kyoto Protocol (supported by scientific understanding reported by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (‘IPCC’)). IPCC has reported that adverse impacts of climate change may be more severe than previously understood, particularly in Africa, but that technologies and means are available to address the challenge affordably. While Africa faces several significant threats, most opportunity lies in optimising Africa's responses, through building resilience to climate shocks, minimising projected damages, and obtaining greater advantage within the negotiated policy, technology transfer and investment frameworks. We must ensure that negotiations towards an inclusive climate architecture are fully cognisant of African interests relating to climate change risks and opportunities.
