Global health experts urge tripling of climate adaptation funds to $120 billion annually by 2035
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Global health experts, under the Global Climate and Health Alliance, have called on governments at the UN climate negotiations in Bonn, Germany, to significantly increase public adaptation financing. They warn that inadequate investment in climate resilience could lead to worsening health risks for millions. The experts propose that adaptation funding should reach at least $120 billion annually by 2035 to help vulnerable communities strengthen health systems, improve access to clean water and sanitation, bolster food security, and prepare for climate-related disasters. Jess Beagley, Policy Lead at the alliance, highlighted that insufficient funding would hinder efforts to protect public health, especially in low- and middle-income countries, potentially leading to increased malnutrition, waterborne diseases, and disruptions in healthcare. The alliance also urged wealthy nations to transition away from fossil fuels, citing threats to human health and the environment. Nova Tebbe, Postdoctoral Researcher, noted that expanding fossil fuel production is incompatible with limiting global warming to safe levels and emphasized prioritizing clean energy access for communities and healthcare facilities. Michele Baker, Policy Coordinator, expressed concern about undocumented and underfunded health impacts from climate-related loss and damage, calling for a comprehensive framework to assess losses and greater accountability for financial commitments made under the Fund for Responding to
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Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has advised Nigerians not to support former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 presidential election, accusing him of ethnic politics. Lawal made these comments during a telephone interview, reacting to a controversy surrounding the African Democratic Congress ADC governorship ticket in Adamawa State. He alleged that Atiku was attempting to replace the party鈥檚 governorship candidate, Suleiman Omar, with Tukur Modibbo, claiming Atiku's politics are ethnically motivated. In response, Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide Phrank Shaibu, denied the allegations, calling them false and baseless. The statement asserted that Atiku had no involvement in any plot to replace the ADC governorship candidate in Adamawa State, and that those behind the claims were uncomfortable with the party's growing unity. The statement urged party members and the public to disregard what it termed "malicious propaganda," emphasizing the ADC's commitment to due process and internal democracy.
Must ReadSix candidates for United Nations secretary-general will engage in a televised debate on Thursday in the General Assembly Hall, preceding the formal selection process. The event, broadcast by Bloomberg, will feature 90 minutes of questions from diplomats, UN employees, and civil society representatives. The candidates include Michelle Bachelet of Chile, Maria Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador, Rafael Grossi of Argentina, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana, and Macky Sall of Senegal. General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock highlighted the importance of this "UN town hall" for understanding the candidates' visions for one of the world's most crucial positions, especially given the UN's current financial and confidence challenges. The United States, for instance, advocates for a return to the organization's core purposes of peace and security. Analysts note that the current campaign is less energetic than the 2016 race, with candidates seemingly cautious to avoid displeasing veto powers. The 15 members of the Security Council are scheduled to hold their first closed-door, anonymous vote on July 30, with subsequent votes until a candidate secures nine votes without a veto. The selected candidate's name will then be sent to the General Assembly for formal appointment, with the new secretary-general taking office on January 1, 2027. While Rafael Grossi is frequently mentioned as a front-runner, other candidates like Grynspan and Rodrigues-Birkett als
Premier League fans have chosen their best XI from the 2026 FIFA World Cup through a worldwide vote on the EPL's website. The selection features top-flight stars recognized for their performances. Manchester City midfielder Rodri was named among the standout players after leading Spain to their second World Cup title and winning the Golden Ball award. Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford secured his place after becoming England鈥檚 most-capped men鈥檚 goalkeeper in World Cup history. Tottenham Hotspur defender Pedro Porro was selected at right-back, while Argentina defenders Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez formed the center-back partnership. England defender Djed Spence completed the defense. The midfield trio included Elliot Anderson, Rodri, and Enzo Fernandez. Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka, Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, and Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr completed the XI. This fan-selected team highlights the significant influence of Premier League players in the 2026 World Cup.