At the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2), African voices will once again take center stage to highlight the continent’s bold leadership in forest-based climate solutions. On September 9, 2025 (17:00–18:30 EAT), the African Forest Forum (AFF), the African Union Commission (AUC), and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), in collaboration with the Government of Ethiopia, will convene a high-level side event at the International Convention Center in Addis Ababa.

Africa’s forests, stretching across 624 million hectares, are a cornerstone of the continent’s resilience—sustaining millions of livelihoods, conserving biodiversity, and regulating the climate. Yet, they remain under immense pressure, with Africa losing nearly 2.8 million hectares annually, the highest deforestation rate in the world. This challenge threatens not only ecosystems but also Africa’s ability to achieve Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Momentum is building. From the Great Green Wall Initiative to the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100), and the landmark First International Conference on Afforestation and Reforestation (ICAR, 2024), countries are mobilizing large-scale afforestation and restoration programmes. These initiatives are demonstrating that forests are not just about conservation—they are central to green growth, sustainable trade, and climate resilience.

This side event at ACS2 will provide a platform to:

• Showcase Africa-led initiatives in afforestation, reforestation, and sustainable forest management.
• Share lessons and progress from across the continent, including Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative and Kenya’s 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme.
• Explore financing and investment opportunities with institutions such as the African Development Bank (AfDB).
• Strengthen partnerships between governments, civil society, and development partners.

With presentations from high-level leaders, technical experts, and civil society actors, the session will foster dialogue, share innovations, and build the political momentum needed to scale up forest restoration efforts across Africa.

This is more than a side event—it is an invitation to shape the future of Africa’s forests as engines of climate resilience, sustainable economies, and intergenerational equity.

Download the Concept Note

For more information, contact:

• Endalamaw@cifor-icraf.org
• Wanambwal@africanunion.org