The Second Africa Climate Summit(ACS2)
Official Side Event at the Africa Climate Summit 2 (ACS2)
Unlocking Africa’s Natural Capital: Wetlands as Catalysts for Resilient and Green Development
đź“… 9 September 2025
🕤 9:30 – 11:00 AM (EAT)
đź“Ť Addis International Convention Centre, Room F3
Why Wetlands, Why Now?
Africa’s wetlands are often overlooked, yet they are the lifelines of the continent. They purify water, protect communities from floods and droughts, store carbon, and sustain millions of livelihoods. Despite this immense value, wetlands are disappearing at an alarming pace, three times faster than terrestrial forests, driven by agricultural expansion, urbanisation, and climate change.
At a time when Africa faces urgent climate and development challenges, wetlands represent untapped natural capital. They are not just conservation issues; they are central to economic planning, resilience strategies, and the green growth agenda.
About the Event
Hosted as an official side event of the Africa Climate Summit 2, this high-level dialogue will spotlight wetlands as a cornerstone of Africa’s future. The session will bring together voices from government, civil society, the private sector, academia, and youth networks to forge a shared agenda for action.
Participants will explore how wetlands can be:
Elevated as critical natural capital and Nature-Based Solutions under Agenda 2063.
Showcased as hubs of innovation, with proven models of restoration and sustainable use.
Financed through innovative mechanisms such as blended finance, carbon markets, and green bonds.
Strengthened through integrated governance and policies that empower local communities.
What to Expect
The event is open to:
• Policymakers and negotiators at ACS2
• Leaders from development partners, financial institutions, and the private sector
• Civil society organisations, academics, researchers, and technical experts
• Youth and community representatives passionate about climate resilience
Join Us in Addis Ababa
Be part of the movement to unlock Africa’s natural capital and place wetlands where they belong, at the heart of Africa’s climate and development agenda.
Together, we can secure a resilient and prosperous future for Africa.