South Africa will use this week’s United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, to push for the implementation of the US$1.3 trillion in climate finance pledged to developing nations last year. The government will also prioritise finalising the Global Goal on Adaptation and ensuring that the Loss and Damage Fund supports the world’s most vulnerable communities.
The South African Government said the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George will lead South Africa’s delegation to the conference, which runs from 10 to 21 November. The 30th annual summit brings together world leaders, business executives, and civil society representatives to advance global efforts to curb climate change and its escalating effects.
“COP30 must deliver real outcomes for people and the planet. This is the time for the world to act,” George said on Monday. “Every decision in Belém must come with a clear plan for implementation, financing, and accountability. People and communities living with the daily reality of climate change cannot wait any longer.”
The conference comes amid intensifying global climate impacts, with 2025 on track to be one of the hottest years on record. Extreme weather events have reshaped livelihoods and ecosystems, particularly across developing regions such as Africa, where adaptation funding remains critically low.
At COP30, delegates are expected to unveil new national climate plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and review progress on financial commitments made at COP29. The negotiations will also spotlight the urgent need to keep global warming below 1.5°C.
Minister George will co-chair negotiations on adaptation alongside Jochen Flasbarth, Germany’s state secretary for economic cooperation and development. The talks aim to establish global indicators to measure real progress in helping countries adapt to climate impacts such as droughts, floods, and rising sea levels.
“Adaptation is about building resilience. It’s how we prepare for the storms, droughts, and rising seas that are already reshaping our world,” George said. “We must be able to track our success and hold ourselves accountable. Without measurable results, there can be no credibility.”
George warned that global cooperation is under strain but reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to working through multilateral channels to achieve equitable solutions.
“No nation can face this crisis alone. Together we can find solutions that are fair, practical, and lasting,” he said.
