In a march for climate justice on Saturday in Dakar, approximately 50 Senegalese women activists protested against polluting countries, urging them to reduce greenhouse gas emissions ahead of COP29. They highlighted the impacts of severe flooding on their communities while calling for accountability from the nations most responsible for climate change, amidst concerns about local environmental degradation due to offshore drilling.
On Saturday, a significant demonstration occurred in Dakar, Senegal, where approximately 50 women activists rallied for climate justice. This march marked an annual event held since 2021 but was deemed particularly relevant this year ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) scheduled for November 11. The participants passionately chanted against capitalism and pollution, brandishing signs that advocated for the protection of Senegal’s environmental resources and the pursuit of a low-carbon future. With climate-related calamities disproportionately affecting women, particularly in rural areas, the activists underscored their grievances. Cheikh Niange Faye, a former tour guide, expressed frustration over the lack of action from countries accountable for greenhouse gas emissions despite their extensive funding for climate conferences. She highlighted the recent record floods in the Sahel, noting their devastating impact on communities and agriculture in Senegal. A core tenet of the activists’ message is that wealthier nations must address their role in climate change and the suffering it has caused in Africa, which only contributes a mere 3.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Organizer Khady Camara called for adherence to the Paris Agreement, while fellow activist Khady Faye spoke about the destructive coastal erosion affecting communities near the Saloum Delta, exacerbated by offshore drilling activities in the Sangomar oil fields. The protesters insist that such projects threaten their livelihoods and call for a halt to practices harming their environment.
The rally reflects widespread concern among Senegalese women regarding climate justice and environmental degradation, particularly as their communities face increasing threats from climate change. Events like floods in rural regions create significant economic and social disruptions. This collective action seeks to hold accountable those countries that contribute most to greenhouse gas emissions while disproportionately affecting vulnerable regions like Africa. The upcoming COP29 provides a critical platform for these voices to amplify their demands for equitable environmental policies and reparations for climate impacts.
The march of Senegalese women in Dakar underscores the urgent call for accountability from polluting nations regarding their contributions to climate change. Through expressed frustrations and demands for justice, the activists highlight the severe consequences faced by their communities. Their efforts aim to influence global conversations on climate accountability during COP29 and advocate for a future where environmental degradation no longer undermines the dignity and livelihoods of vulnerable populations.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
