Leading climate experts and diplomats from across Africa have gathered in Accra for a critical two-day technical workshop. This meeting aims to consolidate Africa's position on the newly established Global Just Transition Mechanism (JTM). The workshop, held from August 10–11, 2026, is a high-stakes preparatory session for COP31.
The international community will decide the operational framework of this landmark climate tool at COP31. The JTM is intended to support climate action, including access to finance, technical assistance, capacity-building, knowledge, and international cooperation. This mechanism moves the global climate conversation from theory to concrete implementation.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader economic and political story by positioning the nation as a key player in global climate discussions. Ghana, like many African nations, faces significant climate change impacts while also pursuing economic development. Securing equitable access to climate finance and technology is crucial for the country's sustainable growth and resilience against environmental challenges.
Nana Dr. Antwi-Boasiako Amoah, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) on Climate Change, opened the workshop. He stressed that Africa can no longer rely on broad statements of intent. Dr. Amoah stated, "Ambition alone is no longer enough. We now need to translate our broad political positions into concrete and technically sound proposals that can find their way into negotiating text."
The workshop's outcomes will be adopted by the broader AGN plenary. These will form the basis of Africa's formal submissions to the UNFCCC. With COP32 in Ethiopia slated as the likely venue for the formal launch of the JTM, the work in Accra is expected to be a cornerstone of the continent's climate strategy for years to come.
A central theme of the workshop is ensuring the JTM reflects Africa's unique socio-economic challenges. Dr. Amoah clarified that for Africa, a "just transition" must address development realities. It cannot simply be about moving from one energy source to another. It must speak to aspirations for industrialisation, economic diversification, and decent jobs.
The transition must also address energy access, adaptation, resilience, and value addition to natural resources. This approach aims for the wider transformation of African economies and societies. The workshop is also addressing the "nexus issues" that complicate the transition, specifically trade and finance.
Dr. Amoah highlighted the risk of Africa remaining a "supplier of raw materials." He noted that green technology and jobs are often created elsewhere. He called for a transition that enables Africa to participate equitably in the emerging green economy. A mechanism without adequate resources risks becoming an institution with good intentions but limited ability to deliver.
The AGN is positioning itself as a vital interlocutor in the global climate arena. The African Group occupies a central position, seeking neither to constrain the JTM's ambition nor approaching it with suspicion. Dr. Amoah challenged participants to leave the workshop with a clear, unified voice. He asked, "What kind of Just Transition Mechanism will genuinely deliver for Africa?"
The workshop is organized in partnership with the Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change of Kenya. Support comes from Power Shift Africa and the Global Wind Energy Council. This collaboration underscores the continent's collective effort to shape a climate mechanism that genuinely serves its interests.