Progress Since 2024: Top 10 African Nations Leading Climate Change Initiatives in 2025

In Summary

• Morocco, ranked 9th globally, leads Africa in renewable energy investments, aiming for 52% renewable electricity by 2030. Kenya (18th) is developing a carbon market, while Rwanda (24th) bans plastic and promotes a green economy. 
• This article ranks African nations based on their performance in climate change initiatives. It highlights key countries such as Morocco, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria, focusing on renewable energy, emissions reductions, and sustainable policies.
• In early 2025, Africa's leaders in climate change are pushing for aggressive renewable energy policies. Despite challenges in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, the continent shows promise with bold strategies aiming for long-term sustainability.

Deep Dive!!

In 2025, Africa's climate performance is a mix of ambitious policy changes and stark realities. The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) highlights the continent's diverse approaches to combating climate change. Africa is home to some of the world's fastest-growing economies, yet it also suffers the most from climate impacts. Despite limited resources, several African nations are leading the charge with innovative solutions, ambitious goals, and transformative policies. These countries are not only adapting to the effects of climate change but also actively driving initiatives to combat it. With a global push for net-zero emissions by 2050, let's explore the African nations setting the stage for the continent's green future, with Morocco, ranked 9th in the world.

10. Zambia 

Zambia has yet to be ranked specifically in the CCPI but has shown promising developments in adaptation strategies. The country's focus on sustainable agriculture, including projects that promote climate-resilient crops, is a critical part of its climate strategy. Zambia also prioritizes renewable energy, with hydropower accounting for over 90% of its electricity generation. The increasing effects of climate change on Zambia's agricultural sector have led to more substantial investments in climate-smart agriculture, showing promise for its long-term adaptation efforts.

9. Uganda

Uganda has been lauded for its sustainable water management initiatives and innovative agricultural practices. The country's comprehensive water management strategy aims to reduce the impact of droughts, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Uganda's government is also focused on improving forest management to combat deforestation and promote reforestation. Though Uganda is not ranked explicitly in the CCPI 2025, its climate resilience strategies are gaining recognition and are expected to push it higher on the global index.

8. Tanzania 

Tanzania is integrating climate considerations into its national development plans. The government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, focusing on expanding its solar and wind capacities. Tanzania also aims to increase the forest cover, reducing the pressure on its natural resources and helping absorb carbon emissions. While not explicitly ranked in the CCPI, Tanzania's focus on green development strategies makes it a rising star in Africa’s climate leadership.

7. Ethiopia 

Ethiopia is a regional leader in renewable energy production, particularly in hydropower and wind energy. The country’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a game-changer for its energy production, with the potential to power millions of homes and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Ethiopia's commitment to reducing emissions through large-scale reforestation projects has earned it recognition on the global stage. The country has set a goal to become carbon-neutral by 2030, which could further elevate its position in future CCPI rankings.

6. Ghana

Ghana has emerged as a leader in sustainable land management and forest preservation. Its efforts to curb deforestation are well recognized globally. The government has introduced a forest protection policy, and Ghana is part of the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100), aiming to restore millions of hectares of degraded land. Ghana’s renewable energy sector, especially solar power, is growing rapidly. It is expected to see further improvements in the CCPI rankings due to its dedication to sustainable land use and green energy development.

5. South Africa

South Africa is ranked 38th globally in the CCPI 2025, showing modest improvements due to its Climate Change Bill. However, the country continues to grapple with heavy reliance on coal, which contributes significantly to its carbon emissions. Despite this, South Africa's transition toward renewable energy is a noteworthy achievement. The country has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 28% by 2025, and its large-scale renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar, are expected to reduce its dependence on coal in the coming years.

4. Nigeria

Nigeria ranked 26th globally in the CCPI, showing a mixed performance. While the country is a significant emitter due to its heavy reliance on oil and gas, there have been efforts to diversify the energy sector. Nigeria has an increasing focus on solar energy, with initiatives like the Solar Power Naija Project, which aims to provide solar energy to off-grid communities. However, the country struggles with weak climate policies and a lack of enforcement. Nigeria’s performance in the CCPI will depend heavily on its political will to implement more aggressive climate policies.

3. Rwanda

Rwanda is at the forefront of Africa’s environmental policies. Ranked 24th in the CCPI 2025, the country is known for its green policies and ban on plastic bags. Rwanda's focus on creating a green economy is evident in its policies, which include promoting electric vehicles, sustainable agriculture, and clean energy. The government's commitment to environmental sustainability has made it a role model in the region. Rwanda’s 2025 performance is expected to improve significantly as it continues to develop policies that integrate climate change mitigation and adaptation.

2. Kenya 

Kenya ranks 18th globally in the CCPI, and its performance continues to improve due to robust climate policies. Kenya is leading in renewable energy, with over 80% of its electricity coming from renewable sources, primarily geothermal and wind power. The country is also advancing in the development of a carbon market, which aims to reduce emissions through market-driven solutions. Kenya has set ambitious goals to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, positioning itself as a key player in Africa's climate change initiatives.

1. Morocco

Morocco is the undisputed leader in Africa when it comes to climate action, ranked 9th globally in the CCPI 2025. The country has made impressive strides in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power. Morocco's Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex is one of the largest solar power plants in the world, and the country aims for 52% of its electricity to come from renewable sources by 2030. Morocco’s climate policies have set a benchmark for the region, and its investments in green energy and sustainable development are expected to continue to push it to the top in the coming years.