Vera Songwe

Vera Songwe, UN Undersecretary General and economist, sheds light on the critical state of Africa's Congo Basin peatlands, one of the world's effective carbon sinks. She emphasizes the necessity of valuing the carbon stored in these swamps to protect them while benefiting local communities. Songwe argues that preserving these ecosystems isn't just about reducing emissions, but also about fostering sustainable development. Her passionate plea calls for recognition of Africa's contributions to global environmental efforts, advocating for justice and transparency in climate action.