• Excellencies, Distinguished Heads of States and Governments, Ministers, Commissioners,
• Leaders of United Nation agencies, Regional Economic Communities, Member States, Partners and Friends,
• Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

1. It is with great honour and a deep sense of purpose that I welcome you to the technical segment of the Africa Biodiversity Summit here in Gaborone, Botswana. This gathering marks a pivotal moment in our continent’s journey to safeguard the rich tapestry of life that defines Africa’s natural heritage. We convene not only as custodians of biodiversity, but as architects of a future where ecological integrity underpins sustainable development, resilience, and prosperity for all Africans.

2. Africa is home to some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet—from the rainforests of the Congo Basin to the savannahs of the Serengeti, from the coral reefs of the Indian Ocean to the deserts of the Sahara. These ecosystems are not merely landscapes; they are lifelines. They sustain livelihoods, regulate climate, provide food and medicine, and hold cultural and spiritual significance for millions. Yet, they are under unprecedented pressure from land degradation, climate change, pollution, and unsustainable exploitation. The urgency to act has never been greater.

3. This technical segment is the engine room of our Summit. It is where science meets policy, where data informs decisions, and where innovation drives solutions. I call upon our researchers, practitioners, and policy experts to engage rigorously, share knowledge openly, and challenge assumptions boldly. Let us harness the power of African science, indigenous knowledge systems, and regional cooperation to craft actionable strategies that will shape the outcomes of this summit and influence global biodiversity frameworks.

4. The African Union Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to the African Union Biodiversity Strategy and the African Green Stimulus Programme. We are working to align continental efforts with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, ensuring that Africa’s voice is strong, unified, and visionary on the global stage. We must also ensure that biodiversity is mainstreamed across sectors—from agriculture and infrastructure to finance and education—so that conservation becomes a shared responsibility and a cornerstone of development.

5. As we begin this technical segment, let us be guided by the principles of inclusivity, integrity, and impact. Let us remember that the decisions we make here will echo across generations. The youth of Africa are watching, and they are counting on us to protect the natural legacy that is their birthright. Let us rise to this occasion with clarity, courage, and conviction.

I thank you, and I look forward to the rich deliberations ahead.