Addis Ababa: Addis Ababa is expected to be officially approved as the host city for the COP32 United Nations Climate Summit in 2027, marking a major moment for Africa in global climate diplomacy. According to reports, the decision to select Ethiopia has gained strong support from the African regional group within the UN climate system and is likely to be formally confirmed soon.
Ethiopia had announced its interest to host the global climate conference earlier this year, highlighting its preparedness, infrastructure, and growing leadership in environmental action. The country emphasized its commitment to sustainability, including large-scale reforestation programs, renewable energy projects, and its national “Green Legacy” initiative that aims to plant billions of trees to fight deforestation and climate change.
If approved, this will be the first time in more than a decade that an African nation hosts a COP summit. Officials and climate experts say that bringing the event to the continent is symbolically important, as Africa faces severe climate impacts despite contributing the least to global emissions. Hosting the summit would provide a platform for African nations to voice their concerns more effectively and push for greater climate finance and adaptation support.
Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, already hosts several major international organizations, including the African Union headquarters and the UN Economic Commission for Africa. The city is considered well equipped with conference facilities, transport links, and diplomatic infrastructure to manage an event that typically draws more than 30,000 delegates, world leaders, and civil society representatives.
The approval process is still awaiting final confirmation from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, but insiders suggest that Ethiopia’s selection is almost certain. The decision follows internal discussions within the African group, which reportedly agreed unanimously in favor of Ethiopia over other potential bidders, including Nigeria.
The announcement also comes as the host country for next year’s COP31 remains undecided, with Turkey, Australia, and a coalition of Pacific Island nations still in the running. Observers say the finalization of the 2026 host could influence the timing and preparation for the 2027 summit.
Hosting COP32 would be a major milestone for Ethiopia, offering a chance to showcase its environmental efforts and strengthen its international standing. It would also help spotlight Africa’s broader fight for equitable climate action and funding. For the global community, the decision underscores the growing recognition that solutions to climate change must be inclusive, representing those most affected by its consequences.