CLI Hosts Sustainability Summit 2024

On September 23rd- 24th, 2024, the Center for Law and Innovation (CLI) hosted the Sustainability Summit 2024, in collaboration with Norrsken East Africa, the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), Hosted In Africa Network (HIA), East Africa the SMEP Programme, the FlipFlopi Project and Hackapath. The Pan-African event themed climate resilience and preparedness and gathered diverse group leaders, experts in green funding, and innovators to address the intersection of law, policy, gender, and critical issues around ideas for a sustainable future in Africa.

The summit was opened with an introductory discussion from Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Rwanda, who gave the call to action: “Society must adapt to manage climate risk in a way that is nature positive and promotes just outcomes for all” emphasised how society must adapt to manage climate risk in a natural positive way that promotes outcomes stating his anticipation for the valuable insights from the summit for policymakers such as himself. Following this keynote,  there was an informative opening fireside on sustainability strategies for African Business Leaders led by Rosalind Kainyah, MBE, founder of Kina Advisory, which covered business responsibilities in balancing financial and environmental performance, emphasising the importance of integrating environmental practices for sustainable growth. As well as challenging African business leaders with issues in global conversations and gender equity, with a call for more focus on training future women leaders to address illegal mining and developing a Pan-African supply chain are key priorities.

The conversations featured the critical challenges facing African agriculture, particularly climate change. Raissa Muhaturukundo, Chief of staff/partnerships, One Acre Fund, championed "sustainable agriculture" to enhance productivity and profitability, especially for women farmers. Chantal Ingabire highlighted that agriculture accounts for 27% of Rwanda's GDP but is hindered by climate impacts and limited technology access. Collaboration emerged as a key theme, with Theophile Dusengimana, Social Risk, Management Specialist, Ministry of Environment Rwanda, emphasizing that Rwanda’s success is rooted in "partnership and collaboration" among communities and ministries. Furthermore, it was identified that there is a need for $1.7 trillion in green investments in East Africa and shared innovative business models, including biodegradable fashion from sugarcane waste. During a conversation on addressing Africa's energy crisis and climate adaptation, Dr. Fidele Ndahayo from Rwanda Atomic Energy Board emphasized the importance of resilience and innovation in the context of nuclear energy as a vital solution for climate adaptation, using Rwanda as a proof of concept in embracing nuclear energy. He urged Africans to confront challenges head-on with the mindset of "Face Everything and Rise" (FEAR), highlighting the significance of addressing sustainability and energy needs by embracing alternative energy sources, nuclear energy and striving towards carbon-zero emissions.  The first day was concluded with an industry insight addressed by Mr Nuhammad Nasiru Wada, founder of Green Insitute Nigeria, who said that illegal mining, population pressure, and environmental destruction threaten sustainability. Hence, more than ever, effective solutions are required by community involvement and an understanding of local needs.

The second day of the Sustainability Summit underscored the critical role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance in promoting sustainable business practices across Africa. Alice Kirezi from Equity Bank stated, "We have a mandate to finance green-compliant businesses by 15% by 2030," emphasizing the financial sector's commitment to sustainability. The panel also highlighted the need for a robust framework to identify risks, with Oliver Rwamasirabo, the managing partner of LegalWise Chambers, quoting that "lawyers play a critical role in helping clients assess risks." Furthermore, the challenges in assessing legal liabilities surrounding environmental sustainability were addressed, with Damiete pointing out the complexity of supply chains and the need for effective enforcement. Florida stressed the importance of empowering vulnerable communities, asserting that "vulnerable communities need to know their rights." Subsequently, a third panel focused on the pivotal role of women in environmental management. Dr. Umar, Climate Change consultant at Green Legacy Nigeria, remarked, "They are the first to be consulted," highlighting women's essential contributions to sustainable practices. Ephrem emphasized community-led projects that empower local leaders, stating, "We are not using service providers; we are creating community assurance."

Following the panel discussion, there was a Masterclass on Developing Conservation Strategies for a Sustainable Africa “ guided by Ephrem from IUCN, where he further advocated for nature-based solutions (NbS), asserting, “Now more than ever, we need to deploy nature-based solutions. ” The day was drawn to a close with CLI’s director Ridwan Oloyede, remarking, “As a continent, we need to act, and we must act fast. In our capacities and as organizations, there is so much ahead of us, and we must do everything we can to keep the world livable.” Finally, it was concluded by Michaela Rugwizangoga, former Chief Tourism Officer, celebrating Rwanda’s sustainability efforts and urging collective action against climate change for Africa’s future. At the end of October, we will publish a brief that captures the discussions, issues, challenges, opportunities and recommendations.