By Faridat Salifu
An international environmental organization 350Africa.org, is urging African leaders to demonstrate greater dedication towards gradually eliminating the use of fossil fuels through adopting clean energy solutions.
The organisation also noted that the over reliance on fossil fuels to create energy has resulted in a damaged environment coupled with societal issues particularly in Africa.
Regional Organiser, 350Africa.org, Ms Rukiya Khamis, made the call in an interview with journalists last weekend in Abuja.
Khamis underscored the need for the African continent to look inwards and accelerate the development of its renewable energy potentials, particularly wind and solar energies.
“We are urging (African) governments and financial institutions to power the continent safely by directing funds to people-centered renewable energy, committing to phase out fossil fuels, and holding the fossil fuel industry accountable for its role in the climate crisis.
“As we witness escalating climate impacts to which the African continent is particularly vulnerable, we remain optimistic that a livable future is still possible.
”Africa has a wealth of renewable energy potential, which presents a unique opportunity for the continent to drive the global renewable energy revolution and support an equitable transition away from fossil fuels,” she added.
The environmental activist stated that the NGO was conducting a global month-long campaign called “Power Up” to demand a clean, peaceful, and equitable future for Africans.
She explained that the campaign’s goal was to put pressure on governments to shift the narrative.
“Beginning November 3, we will be asking governments to get their act together and recover the fossil fuel industry’s enormous profits.
“Whether through taxes, the elimination of subsidies, or the cessation of investments in new fossil fuel projects, they must use this money to supercharge a global renewable energy revolution, one that is fair and shares resources equally”, she emphasized.
According to her, the NGO is collaborating with local groups and communities to promote awareness about the importance of community-centered renewable initiatives in order to create a clean/sustainable environment.
“Our planet’s rapid heating is not an accident; it is a crime committed by a greedy few oil companies. It is time to break free from the chains of coal, oil, and gas and make the polluters pay for the urgent transformation we desperately need.
“We are taking to the streets not only out of rage, but also with a burning hope in our hearts. We believe in a better future and we are motivated to create it. People all throughout the world are already pushing for a more sustainable, just, and renewable world.
“Wind and solar electricity are breaking records year after year and becoming more affordable by the day. We have the means and technology to make this shift a reality; what is lacking is political will,” she remarked.
Khamis added that the NGO has planned a series of “Power Up” events in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ogoniland in the Niger Delta to raise awareness about oil spills, environmental damage, and the need to transition to renewable energy.
