By Baboucarr Nyang – Acting Regional Node at CAN Africa
CAN Africa’s Acting Regional Node had the privilege of participating in the Just Transition Project, held from the 8th to 10th 8 to 10 April 2025, and convened by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Trade Union Competence Centre (FES TUCC) in South Africa. As the Regional Node of CAN Africa and a member of the Advisory and Advocacy Group, I am honored to contribute to the ongoing dialogue around shaping a Just Transition that truly reflects the realities and aspirations of African people—particularly workers, youth, and frontline communities.
The concept of a Just Transition is often discussed in technical or economic terms, but at its core, it is deeply human. It is about ensuring that as we move toward greener economies, no one is left behind. For us in Africa, this means putting equity, justice, and social protection at the center of climate and economic policy. It also means financing mechanisms must be fair, accessible, and aligned with the continent’s development needs.
Through this platform, I am engaging with trade union leaders, civil society actors, feminist groups and policy thinkers from across the region to explore how social dialogue, public financing, and inclusive policy design can work together to support a transition that creates decent jobs, builds resilience, and secures the rights and livelihoods of communities dependent on high-emitting sectors.
At CAN Africa, we continue to push for stronger climate finance commitments that are grounded in justice—financing that enables renewable energy expansion, community adaptation, and the creation of green jobs in a way that reflects local priorities. The Just Transition conversation must not only be about decarbonization; it must also be about decolonization—of ideas, of financing structures, and of development pathways.
As an advisor to this project, I am committed to bringing forward the voices of African civil society and ensuring that the recommendations we craft are bold, grounded, and actionable. We must continue to remind the global community that climate justice and social justice are inseparable—and that Africa must not only be part of the transition, but also help lead it.
I look forward to deepening these conversations, building alliances, and ensuring that the outcomes of this important project are responsive to the needs of our people.
The journey toward a truly Just Transition for Africa.