Greenpeace is a global organization that works to confront pressing environmental issues such as climate change, plastic pollution, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. Photo from Greenpeace
Greenpeace Africa has called on African environment ministers to take bold and united action on plastic pollution, climate justice, and forest protection as the 20th African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) opened in Nairobi.
The meeting brings together ministers from all 54 African countries at a critical time for environmental decision-making on the continent.
Greenpeace Africa is urging leaders to resist pressure from industry groups and to instead uphold past commitments that put Africa at the forefront of global environmental policy.
“This is a defining moment,” said Greenpeace Africa in a press release issued Monday. “Decisive action is urgently needed.”
At the heart of Greenpeace’s appeal are three key demands: a strong stance on the Global Plastics Treaty, reparations for climate damage, and support for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities in forest protection.
Stand Firm on Plastics Treaty
The organization is asking ministers to reaffirm their commitment to AMCEN Decision 19/2, which supported a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty that tackles pollution across the full life cycle of plastics.
With negotiations set to continue in Geneva this August, Greenpeace warned that any weakening of Africa’s stance would harm the continent’s environmental interests.
“The plastic pollution crisis is disproportionately affecting African communities,” said Hellen Dena, Project Lead for the Pan African Plastic Project.
“From open burning and illegal waste dumping in low-income communities, to the health threats of microplastics and toxic chemicals, it is often the most vulnerable that bear the brunt of this crisis.”
She added: “AMCEN must resist industry pressure and maintain its call for plastics production caps in the Global Plastics Treaty.”
Make Polluters Pay
Greenpeace is also pushing ministers to take a firm stance on making oil and gas corporations pay for the damage they have caused.
A new poll conducted by Greenpeace and Oxfam found that 81% of respondents in 13 African countries support taxes on fossil fuel companies to fund climate recovery.
This includes 85% in Kenya and 80% in South Africa.
“AMCEN must champion reparations for climate damages and ensure that those who profited most from environmental destruction contribute to addressing the damage,” said Sherelee Odayar, Oil and Gas Campaigner at Greenpeace Africa.
“This is not just environmental policy but a matter of justice for communities suffering the worst climate impacts.”
Protect Forests by Supporting Local Communities
Greenpeace is calling for African ministers to fully involve Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities in efforts to stop deforestation.
The group says the best way to protect Africa’s forests is by providing direct financing and legal recognition to those who have long safeguarded them.
“African forests are being decimated while those who have protected them for generations are sidelined,” said Dr Lamfu Yengong, Greenpeace Africa’s Lead Forest Campaigner.
“AMCEN must ensure direct finance and recognition of the rights of the Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities who are the most effective guardians of our biodiversity.”
Unity is Key
As decisions made at AMCEN will shape Africa’s positions at global summits such as COP 30 and UNEA 7, Greenpeace called on ministers to remain united.
“Our leaders must act with courage, not caution—with conviction, not compromise,” said Koaile Monaheng, Greenpeace Africa’s Pan African Political Strategist.
“The people of Africa are demanding action, and AMCEN must deliver.”
About Greenpeace
Greenpeace is a global environmental organization founded in 1971, known for its bold advocacy, non-violent direct action, and independent stance.
Operating in over 55 countries, including across Africa, it works to confront pressing environmental issues such as climate change, plastic pollution, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
Greenpeace Africa, established in 2008 with offices in Nairobi, Dakar, and Johannesburg, focuses on empowering local communities, defending Indigenous land rights, and promoting climate justice.
The organization does not accept funding from governments or corporations, allowing it to campaign independently and hold powerful actors accountable for environmental harm.
