Staff Reporter
WINDHOEK, November 28 — Namibian President Dr. Hage G. Geingob is gearing up to play a pivotal role in the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) and the accompanying High-Level Events of the Global Stocktake (GST) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 12, 2023.
President Geingob’s participation comes at a crucial time, as COP28 presents a pivotal opportunity for the global community to address the escalating climate crisis. Invited by H.E. Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, President Geingob aims to contribute to international efforts to combat climate change and steer climate negotiations among UNFCC parties.
### Global Stocktake (GST) and Paris Agreement Assessment
COP28 marks the conclusion of the first Global Stocktake under the Paris Agreement, assessing global progress and identifying areas for enhanced climate action. Established by Article 14 of the Paris Agreement, the GST evaluates collective efforts toward achieving the Agreement’s purpose and long-term goals, considering mitigation, adaptation, means of implementation, and support.
### World Climate Action Summit and Emirates Climate Conference Launch
On December 1, President Geingob will partake in the World Climate Action Summit, formally launching the Emirates Climate Conference. This summit provides a platform for global leaders to engage in crucial climate dialogues and sets the stage for discussions on means of implementation, mitigation, and adaptation.
### Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Ambitions
Namibia, heavily impacted by climate change, views COP28 as an opportunity to showcase its commitment to sustainable solutions. With advanced initiatives to produce clean energy through green hydrogen, Namibia aims to respond to global climate challenges and contribute to meeting global energy demands. The summit positions Namibia as an aspiring green hydrogen superpower, ready to become an international exporter of green hydrogen in the coming decade.
### High-Level Engagements and Meetings
President Geingob’s schedule at COP28 includes participation in the Summit of G-77 and China Leaders on Climate Change, as well as attendance at an initial meeting of the Critical Raw Materials Club organized by the European Commission at the EU Pavilion. Additionally, he will join in the celebration of the UAE’s 52nd National Day on December 3.
On the margins of COP28, President Geingob will engage in crucial meetings with influential figures, including the former Secretary-General of the United Nations and current Chairperson of the Center for Global Adaptation, H.E. Ban Ki-Moon. Business leaders from Siemens Energy and Fortescue Future Industries are also on the agenda, fostering partnerships for sustainable climate solutions.
### Departure and Return
President Hage G. Geingob is set to depart on Monday, November 27, 2023, and is scheduled to return to Namibia on Sunday, December 10, 2023. His active participation in COP28 underscores Namibia’s dedication to global climate resilience and its proactive stance in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.
