Central Africa faces escalating challenges as the region contends with extreme climate events and crucial electoral transitions.
Abdou Abarry, the United Nations Special Representative for Central Africa (UNOCA), spotlighted these pressing issues during a Saturday briefing to the United Nations Security Council.
Climate Crisis: A Growing Threat to Central Africa
According to Abarry, severe climate events have devastated nearly every country in Central Africa this year. He revealed, “Since the beginning of 2024, almost every country in Central Africa has been affected by extreme climate events, resulting in deadly and destructive floods that have impacted more than 3.2 million people.” 
These floods have exacerbated socio-economic tensions across the region, threatening already vulnerable communities.
Despite the region’s pivotal role in combating global climate change, Abarry emphasized that international financial commitments remain woefully inadequate. He explained, “Less than 15 per cent of international financial commitments to Central Africa have been fulfilled.”
He urged global stakeholders to prioritize funding for preserving the Congo Basin forest, a vital ecosystem often referred to as the planet’s “second green lung.”
Political Transitions: A Double-Edged Sword
In addition to climate-related issues, Central Africa faces a critical period of political transitions. UNOCA, whose mandate was recently extended, has been working to ensure governance stability and conflict prevention. Abarry underscored the importance of fostering “free, inclusive, and peaceful elections” throughout the region.
Chad, for instance, is preparing to conclude its political transition with legislative, provincial, and local elections on December 29, marking the final step toward solidifying the Fifth Republic’s constitutional framework.
Other nations, including Burundi, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Central African Republic, are gearing up for elections in 2025, while Congo and São Tomé and Príncipe will hold presidential elections in 2026.
Despite progress, Abarry warned of persistent threats to stability, including unconstitutional government changes and rising insecurity fueled by groups like Boko Haram. These factors continue to undermine regional peace and governance, raising concerns about the future trajectory of Central Africa.
A Call for Global Action
While addressing the dual challenges of climate crises and political transitions, Abarry lauded efforts like COP29 for acknowledging the significance of the Congo Basin forest. However, he reiterated that addressing these challenges requires robust international cooperation and financial support.
As the region struggles with these complex issues, Abarry’s message to the global community is clear: “It is crucial to secure funding to protect this vital ecosystem and enhance the resilience of populations in the region.”
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