Zero Waste Foundation Strengthens COP31 Diplomacy in Africa
Samed Agirbas, the Climate High-Level Champion for COP31 and President of the Zero Waste Foundation, participated in the Second Africa Urban Forum (AUF2) from April 6 to 10 in Nairobi. His involvement aimed to foster climate justice, enhance global cooperation, and promote circular economy solutions through strategic partnerships across Africa.
Agirbas emphasized the necessity of collective responsibility in addressing climate change. He stated that the approach should not rely on aid but rather on equal partnerships. As preparations for COP31 continue, he underscored the importance of building a global agenda rooted in fairness, shared knowledge, and collaborative action for sustainable cities and resilient communities.
Strengthening Climate Diplomacy Through Africa
Agirbas’s participation in AUF2 was part of a broader diplomatic effort leading up to COP31, focusing on aligning global priorities with the needs of African nations. His engagements showcased Türkiye’s increasing leadership in sustainability and its commitment to fostering inclusive, partnership-driven solutions.
Throughout the forum, the Zero Waste Foundation highlighted climate justice as a fundamental principle. Discussions centered on practical pathways for implementing circular economy models and effective waste management systems, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas. Türkiye’s zero waste approach was presented as a scalable model, illustrating how national experiences can contribute to global sustainability goals through mutual exchange rather than unilateral frameworks.
Advancing Sustainable Cities and Circular Economy
During AUF2, Agirbas stressed the vital role of sustainable cities in tackling climate challenges. Key themes included urban resilience, waste management, and resource efficiency, which were discussed with various stakeholders.
Meetings took place with Dr. Aklilu Fikresilassie, Resilient Cities Director at WRI Africa, and Dr. Meggan Spires, Climate Change Director at ICLEI Africa. These discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in urban sustainability and climate action. Agirbas also engaged with Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-Habitat, to advance global urban development agendas.
These interactions underscored the necessity for integrated approaches that combine policy, innovation, and local expertise. The Zero Waste Foundation reiterated the importance of embedding circular economy principles into city planning, which can yield long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Engaging with Communities and Youth on the Ground
Agirbas’s visit to Nairobi included field visits to disadvantaged communities, such as Kibera and Mathare, where he engaged directly with local residents and youth leaders. He expressed a desire to amplify the voice of climate justice from Kibera to the global stage, stating that protecting the shared environment begins with mutual protection.
During a visit to a local school, Agirbas highlighted the precarious conditions faced by communities affected by climate change and poverty. Many residents struggle to survive on just $10 to $15 a month, facing life-threatening risks linked to climate impacts.
In Mathare Community Park, he met with approximately 20 young leaders to discuss youth responses to climate emergencies, such as flooding, and delivered a brief presentation regarding his role as a Champion. The visit concluded with a tree-planting initiative.
Building Strategic Partnerships for COP31
Agirbas’s agenda in Nairobi also included meetings aimed at enhancing cross-sector collaboration. Discussions with Dr. Elvan Kuzucu Hıdır of the T3 Foundation and Zeliha Sağlam of the African Culture House emphasized the importance of technology, cultural exchange, and community engagement in sustainability efforts.
These engagements reflect a broader strategy to strengthen ties between Türkiye and Africa through shared objectives and collaborative initiatives. The Zero Waste Foundation framed sustainability as a collective journey shaped by mutual learning and co-development.
Agirbas remarked on the importance of maintaining a unified global agenda as preparations for COP31 progress. He noted that the dialogues in Nairobi clearly demonstrated that regional discussions can significantly influence global climate action. Sustainable solutions will only emerge through strong partnerships, shared responsibility, and a steadfast commitment to climate justice.
Source: www.zawya.com
Contact:
Ahmet Musa Bala
basin@sifiratikvakfi.org
About the Zero Waste Foundation:
The Zero Waste Foundation is Türkiye’s leading platform for advancing circular economy solutions and sustainable resource management at both national and global levels. Established under the honorary leadership of First Lady H.E. Emine Erdoğan, the Foundation develops and implements programs that reduce waste, increase efficiency, and align environmental policy with climate goals.
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Published on 2026-04-21 18:02:00 • By the Editorial Desk
