By Aoma Keziah,
Civil society actors from across Africa a gathered for a Sustainable Climate Finance in Africa Civil Society Learning Event in Nairobi, hosted by the Tax Justice Network Africa. This event brought together activists, policymakers, and experts across three critical movements resource justice, tax justice, and climate justice to address the continent’s most pressing issues at the intersection of financial transparency and environmental sustainability.
Day one of the event centered on discussing how environmental taxes, carbon tax policies, and green energy incentives can play a role in advancing climate goals in Africa. Participants delved into the potential and challenges of implementing carbon taxes, specifically evaluating how such taxes are applied across different African countries and their effectiveness in reducing emissions.
Chenai Mukumba, Executive director at Tax justice network africa (TJNA) emphasized the urgency of creating tax systems that empower African nations to invest in climate adaptation and green infrastructure.
“The issues of illicit financial flows and tax inequities are intricately connected to our climate challenges. We cannot tackle climate change without addressing the resources lost to unjust tax practices.” She said.
Discussions also highlighted the role of tax incentives aimed at boosting investment in renewable energy initiatives, with a focus on ensuring these incentives do not inadvertently reinforce tax injustices or benefit only a select few.
The three day event is expected to continue exploring sustainable financing mechanisms, the impact of tax havens, and strategies for civil society collaboration to build a fairer, climate resilient future for Africa
