By Emma Black
December 10, 2024 Freetown, Sierra Leone, has made history as the second African capital to endorse the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, this bold move places the city among over 120 cities worldwide, united in a global push for a just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
Following its pioneering climate action strategies, including appointing Africa’s first Chief Heat Officer, Freetown has demonstrated its leadership in addressing climate vulnerability. The city’s endorsement reinforces its commitment to building a sustainable and equitable future.
Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Co-Chair of C40 Cities, emphasized the urgency of this decision “While COP28 was a crucial step in acknowledging the necessity of transitioning away from fossil fuels, this decision was not reaffirmed at COP29. We find ourselves at a crossroads: one path leads to the preservation of humanity, while the other leads to its annihilation. It is imperative that we take bold and decisive action like the Fossil Fuel Treaty to end our dependence on fossil fuels and harness our unbridled renewable energy potential.”
She added that African cities, as hubs of innovation, could lead this transition, inspiring global collaboration toward renewable energy solutions.
Mark Watts, Executive Director of C40 Cities, lauded Freetown’s leadership:
“This move sends a clear message to the fossil fuel industry that the world’s major cities are fully committed to the phaseout of fossil fuels. Cities like London and now Freetown are leading the charge for a just and equitable energy future.”
Local advocate Karim Bah highlighted the historical significance
“Freetown… played a historic role in the abolition of slavery. It is rather fitting that Freetown is among the first in Africa to answer to the call of activists for the abolition of fossil fuels.”
Seble Samuel, Head of Africa Campaigns at the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, remarked
“The fossil fuel industry has hypnotized Africa for decades, promising fortunes while siphoning profits… Freetown has seen through this fossil-fueled hypocrisy and sets the tone for a new future powered by the sun, water, and wind.”
Fadhel Kaboub, Senior Advisor at Power Shift Africa, called for immediate global action, governments must prioritize the negotiation of a global framework to finance Africa’s transition to renewable energy, it is time for African countries to join the growing bloc of nations already supporting a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is gaining momentum globally. Supported by Nobel laureates, faith leaders, scientists, and organizations, the initiative demands an end to fossil fuel dependency, equitable transitions, and tangible climate action.
Freetown’s decision amplifies calls for climate justice and a sustainable future, inspiring other cities across Africa and beyond to take decisive steps toward renewable energy.
