By Lodu William Odiya

The Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA) has yesterday urged President Salva Kiir Mayardit to Show Stronger Commitment in Combating Climate Change in South Sudan

In statement extended to the media, CPA’s Executive Director Ter Manyang Gatwech called on the president to demonstrate a renewed and genuine commitment to addressing the growing climate crisis in South Sudan.

This urgent call comes as Heads of State and Government gather in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the Second Edition of the Africa Climate Summit.

The Summit serves as a vital platform to shape, inform, and influence climate-related commitments, pledges, and outcomes on the continent.

The event is co-hosted by the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Government of Ethiopia and is focused on advancing Africa-led climate solutions and securing sustainable financing strategies.

These efforts aim to support both adaptation and mitigation measures while ensuring inclusive green development across the continent.

Manyang expressed deep concern over the Government of South Sudan’s insufficient efforts in tackling the impacts of climate change.

“Climate change is not just a global issue; it is a daily reality in South Sudan. Half of our population is affected by flooding and displacement caused by environmental degradation,” Manyang said.

“We urgently need a collective response involving the government, civil society, international organizations, and partners. The time for action is now” he said.

Manyang underscored South Sudan, one of the most climate-vulnerable nations in the region, continues to face severe floods, food insecurity, and displacement all exacerbated by global warming and limited national climate action.

The Africa Climate Summit emphasizes Africa’s unique opportunity to lead global climate solutions.

It also highlights the need for fair and equitable distribution of climate financing, especially for countries like South Sudan that have contributed the least to the crisis but bear its heaviest burdens.

CPA urged President Kiir to prioritize climate action through concrete policy reforms, increased budgetary allocations, and active participation in continental and global climate dialogues.

“We must act with urgency. South Sudan can no longer afford to treat climate change as a secondary issue,” Manyang added.