Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change

August 29, 2023

48 African countries have agreed to adopt the Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change (KDMECC) to address the nexus between human mobility and climate change in Africa. The KDMECC, originally signed by 15 African states in 2022, is the first comprehensive, action-oriented framework led by Member States to address climate-induced mobility practically and effectively. The agreement was made at a conference co-hosted by Kenya and Uganda with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UNFCCC. The KDMECC-AFRICA is expected to be signed at the Africa Climate Summit on September 4, 2023.

What is the significance of the Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change (KDMECC)?

The KDMECC is significant as it is the first comprehensive, action-oriented framework led by African Member States to address climate-induced mobility in a practical and effective manner. This is crucial as climate change, leading to increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, has a direct impact on migration, with over 7.5 million new internal disaster displacements reported last year alone.

How does climate change impact human mobility in Africa?

Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and storms, which in turn leads to environmental degradation, food and water scarcity, and loss of livelihoods. This forces people to migrate internally or across borders in search of safety, better living conditions, and economic opportunities. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, there were over 7.5 million new internal disaster displacements in Africa last year, and this number could rise to 105 million people by the end of the century if no action is taken.

How does the KDMECC aim to address the challenges of climate-induced migration?

The KDMECC aims to address climate-induced migration by providing a comprehensive, action-oriented framework for Member States to develop and implement policies and strategies that address the challenges of climate-induced mobility while also leveraging migration for sustainable development. This includes ensuring that the voices of youth, women, and persons in vulnerable situations are prioritized in the expanded declaration, as stated by Rebecca Amuge Otengo, ambassador of Uganda to Ethiopia.

What role do international organizations like the IOM and UNFCCC play in addressing climate-induced migration in Africa?

International organizations like the IOM and UNFCCC play a crucial role in addressing climate-induced migration by providing support to Member States in developing and implementing policies and strategies to address the challenges of climate-induced mobility. They also provide a platform for Member States to collaborate and develop a common position ahead of important global meetings like the Africa Climate Summit and the Conference of Parties (COP 28).

How can the international community support African countries in addressing the challenges of climate-induced migration?

The international community can support African countries by providing financial and technical assistance to implement the KDMECC and other related policies and strategies. They can also support capacity-building efforts, share best practices and knowledge, and promote regional and international cooperation to address the challenges of climate-induced migration. Ultimately, addressing the root causes of climate change through global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is also crucial to mitigating the impacts on human mobility.

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