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Minister Willie Aucamp announced on 25 November in Pretoria that South Africa fully supports the decisions adopted at COP30 in Belém. The conference, held from 24-28 November under the UNFCCC, produced the Belém Political Package with major gains on NDCs, climate finance, and just transition measures. South Africa says the outcomes create clearer pathways for real climate action.
What Happened
COP30 delegates adopted new measures to strengthen global climate commitments. The Belém Political Package introduced updated Nationally Determined Contributions and the “Global Mutirão,” a system designed to push countries toward faster NDC delivery and improved adaptation planning.
South Africa also celebrated the adoption of indicators under the Global Goal on Adaptation.
“We are confident that this process will address the gaps and strengthen the technical work ahead,” said Deputy Director-General Maesela Kekana.
In addition, the conference approved a mechanism to support just transitions, guided by the earlier UAE Work Programme.
Official Response
Minister Aucamp welcomed the outcomes and stressed that South Africa stands ready to implement the decisions.
“We stand ready to work with all Parties to ensure these commitments turn into action,” he said. “Our climate tools already drive strong domestic action while keeping us aligned with global obligations.”
Kekana also raised concerns about climate finance.
“The base remains low. Doubling a small amount is not enough to meet the needs of developing countries,” he noted.
Even so, South Africa praised the call to triple adaptation finance by 2035 and urged ambitious replenishment of global climate funds.
Community Impact
Environmental groups say the outcomes offer hope for communities facing climate shocks. They believe the new adaptation indicators and finance commitments will improve long-term resilience.
“This package gives local areas a clearer chance to adapt before disasters strike,” one community advocate commented.
Stakeholders also applauded South Africa’s push for a just transition mechanism, noting its potential to support workers, municipalities, and industries in transition.
