Rwanda plans to use its incoming chairmanship of the Group of 77 and China in 2027 to strengthen cooperation among developing countries and push for progress on unresolved issues in international climate negotiations, Prime Minister Dr Justin Nsengiyumva has said.
He said Rwanda would prioritise efforts to secure clearer arrangements for measuring the financial support developing countries need to adapt to climate change, including under the Global Goal on Adaptation.
“Rwanda stands ready to work with all countries. As we assume the chairmanship of the G77 and China in 2027, we are committed to strengthening unity among developing countries and advancing the outstanding work in climate negotiations, including on the Global Goal on Adaptation, particularly the support needed and where it should come from,” Nsengiyumva said.
He was speaking on November 12 at the high-level segment of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye.
Rwanda was elected by acclamation to chair the G77 for 2027, giving it a role in coordinating the positions of developing countries in international negotiations. The group, which works with China, represents developing countries on issues including climate finance and sustainable development.
Nsengiyumva said COP31 should not be judged only by the decisions and commitments made during the conference, but also by the practical action countries take together to address climate change.
He said Rwanda was ready to contribute to global efforts but stressed that developing countries needed stronger international cooperation and adequate financial support to implement their climate plans.
Rwanda estimates that it will require Rwf17.95 trillion, equivalent to about $12 billion, to implement its climate action plan through 2035 and achieve its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 53 per cent below business-as-usual levels.
The Prime Minister said about 80 per cent of the required funding, or Rwf14.36 trillion, would need to come from international support, while the remaining Rwf3.59 trillion would be mobilised through other investment sources.
The financing is intended to support both emissions reduction measures and efforts to help the country cope with the effects of climate change.
Rwanda’s incoming G77 leadership is expected to place climate finance and adaptation support among the issues it seeks to advance during its 2027 term.
