The UK’s acknowledgment of climate change’s impact on peace and stability in Central Africa was underscored in a compelling statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on the United Nations Office for Central Africa (UNOCA). Consequently, this article delves into the key points addressed by the ambassador, highlighting not only the UK’s support for regional stability but also its humanitarian efforts in Eastern Chad.
Introduction
Amid the pressing global challenges, the UK has taken a firm stance on the significant impacts of climate change on peace and stability in Central Africa. Specifically, in a recent UN Security Council meeting, Ambassador James Kariuki outlined the UK’s perspective and commitments, thereby emphasizing the necessity for collaborative efforts to tackle these issues.
The UK’s Position on Climate Change and Stability
Ambassador James Kariuki emphasized the UK’s recognition of climate change as a critical factor influencing peace and stability in Central Africa.
He highlighted several key points during his address:
Peaceful Elections and Governance in Chad
- Peaceful Presidential Election: The UK welcomed Chad’s presidential election on 6 May, which occurred under broadly peaceful conditions.
- Challenges and Recommendations: However, Kariuki pointed out allegations of irregularities and the denial of accreditation to 2,900 EU-trained electoral observers, which could undermine progress toward constitutional order. The UK urged Chad to set a timeline for local and legislative elections to demonstrate a commitment to good governance.
Support for Gabon and Cameroon
- Gabon’s National Dialogue: The ambassador acknowledged Gabon’s critical juncture following its national dialogue and commended the authorities’ cooperation with UNOCA. He emphasized the importance of an inclusive process for the transition to constitutional order, aligned with the roadmap to elections in August 2025.
- Cameroon’s Political Crisis: Kariuki encouraged UNOCA to deepen its support for Cameroon in developing political solutions to the crisis in its North-West and South-West regions. He also expressed the UK’s deep concern over insurgent violence in the Far North region and the growing use of improvised explosive devices.
Combating Jihadist Groups and Regional Stability
- Lake Chad Basin: The UK fully supports the Multinational Joint Task Force in combating jihadist groups in the Lake Chad Basin. Ambassador Kariuki highlighted the need to tackle the drivers and enablers of conflict to deliver stability in the subregion.
UK’s Humanitarian Efforts in Eastern Chad
The UK has significantly increased its humanitarian aid in response to the refugee crisis in Eastern Chad, driven by the conflict in neighboring Sudan. Here are the key points:
Increased Funding for Sudan Crisis Response
- Nearly Doubled Aid: The UK has nearly doubled its aid for Sudan to £89 million for 2024-2025, up from nearly £50 million the previous year.
- Targeted Support: This funding boost is specifically aimed at assisting refugees who have fled into Eastern Chad from Sudan.
Support for Refugees
- Emergency Assistance: During a visit to the Chad-Sudan border, UK Development Minister Andrew Mitchell announced additional UK aid for refugees in Eastern Chad. This includes funding to UNICEF to provide emergency food assistance, nutrition, water, and hygiene services for 500,000 children under five.
- Support for Women and Girls: The UK is also providing £4.95 million to support 100,000 women and girls in Chad, including refugees, with services for the prevention and response to female genital mutilation, child marriage, and gender-based violence.
Collaboration with the Chadian Government
- Discussions with Leaders: Minister Mitchell met with Chadian President Mahamat Deby and Prime Minister Masra to discuss how the UK and Chad can work together towards peace in Sudan and support transparent elections in Chad.
- Climate Finance Coordination: The UK chairs a coordination group supporting Chad’s access to climate finance, which is crucial for building resilience in areas hosting refugees.
UK Humanitarian Aid Initiatives in Eastern Chad
Initiative |
Description |
Beneficiaries |
|---|---|---|
| Increased Aid for Sudan Crisis | Nearly doubled aid to £89 million for 2024-2025 | Refugees from Sudan |
| UNICEF Emergency Assistance | Funding for emergency food, nutrition, water, and hygiene services | 500,000 children under five |
| Support for Women and Girls | £4.95 million for prevention and response to female genital mutilation, child marriage, etc. | 100,000 women and girls |
| Climate Finance Coordination | Supporting Chad’s access to climate finance for refugee-hosting areas | Refugee and host populations |
The Bottom Line
The UK’s statement at the UN Security Council underscores its commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges in Central Africa, particularly those exacerbated by climate change. Through strategic support for governance, peace initiatives, and significant humanitarian aid, the UK aims to foster stability and resilience in the region. Ambassador Kariuki’s address reflects the UK’s broader strategy to collaborate with regional actors and international organizations to promote peace and stability in Central Africa.
By prioritizing climate change impacts and supporting humanitarian efforts, the UK is playing a pivotal role in addressing both immediate and long-term challenges in Central Africa. This proactive approach not only highlights the UK’s dedication to global peace but also its recognition of the intricate link between climate change and regional stability.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, United Nations, Relief Web & James Kariuki
