MALAWI: US Withdrawal From Paris Agreement: A Wake-Up Call For Malawi

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

The United States (US) withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, has sent shockwaves globally with experts warning of significant effects on the fight against climate change.

Malawi, in particular, is urged to take this as a wake-up call to formulate its own policies promoting climate justice.

President Donald Trump’s executive order initiated the US departure from the agreement, which established the Green Climate Fund to support developing countries like Malawi in adapting to climate change.

Environmental experts, including Godfrey Mfiti, emphasize the need for Malawi to be self-reliant on climate change issues.

The US withdrawal is expected to impact global efforts to combat climate change, but experts argue that it won’t reduce countries’ obligations to submit better Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) every 5 or 10 years and report on their progress.

Mfiti noted that Malawi needs to develop its own strategies to address climate change, rather than relying on international agreements.

He emphasised the importance of investing in renewable energy sources, improving agricultural practices, and promoting sustainable land use.

The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Malawi, as a signatory to the agreement, is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

In light of the US withdrawal, Malawi must reassess its climate change strategy and explore alternative sources of funding and support.

This may involve strengthening partnerships with other countries, international organisations, and civil society groups.

Ultimately, the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement presents an opportunity for Malawi to take ownership of its climate change agenda and develop innovative solutions to address this global challenge.