In a significant gathering aimed at addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time, the Regional Green Economy Forum (RGEF) 2025 was officially launched in Tangier, Morocco, under the esteemed patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The event, which took place over two days, is aptly themed “Empowering African Cities: Paving the Path to Carbon Neutrality.”
The forum drew an impressive assembly of stakeholders, including government officials from various nations, municipal leaders, youth advocates, and distinguished experts from around the globe. Together, they convened to deliberate on actionable strategies that promote sustainable urban development across Africa—a continent that is increasingly on the front lines of climate change impacts and environmental challenges.
As the Chairman of the World Green Economy Organisation (WGEO), HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer underscored the immediacy of climate action. In his keynote address, he articulated the critical role cities play in spearheading the transition to a greener economy and urged all participants to view sustainability as a fundamental component of urban planning and development. Al Tayer emphasized the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to sustainability, framing it as a model for other nations striving towards similar environmental goals. He notably commended Morocco for its proactive approach to climate initiatives, recognized as a significant player in the regional climate agenda.
Central to the discussions were topics such as green financing, the promotion of renewable energy sources, and innovations in smart mobility. The forum aimed to equip local governments with the necessary tools and knowledge to forge partnerships between the public and private sectors. It was highlighted that such collaborations are essential to drive investment into green projects that actively mitigate climate change. The incorporation of youth voices was particularly noteworthy, as Al Tayer encouraged young leaders to step up as catalysts for change, influencing their communities towards a sustainable future.
The outcomes of this forum are poised to contribute significantly to Africa’s representation in the global climate dialogue. As the continent seeks a stronger voice on the international stage regarding climate issues, the insights and agreements forged at the RGEF will undoubtedly resonate at forthcoming global platforms, including the anticipated World Green Economy Summit 2025, set to take place in Dubai.
Prominent figures at the forum included Moroccan Minister HE Leila Benali, various regional leaders, representatives from the United Nations, and delegates from the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG-Africa). They engaged deeply in discussions that spanned a variety of relevant topics. One particularly engaging segment was the Youth Roundtable, which showcased the vibrancy and commitment of younger generations to tackling environmental challenges. Young leaders emphasized their role in advocating for sustainable practices and engaging their peers to participate in climate actions within their communities.
In conclusion, the Regional Green Economy Forum 2025 not only underscores the urgency of addressing climate change in practical terms but also highlights the importance of collaboration across various sectors, including government, business, and civil society. By focusing specifically on African cities, the forum recognizes the diverse challenges and opportunities present across the continent. As urbanization continues to rise in Africa, ensuring sustainable growth becomes not just a necessity but a moral imperative for the preservation of the environment and the wellbeing of future generations.
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