During the G7 Leaders Summit’s global outreach session, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized the need to reform the international financial system. His goal is to unlock the necessary funds to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard in global politics.
Sunak highlighted the importance of supporting countries in their transition to clean energy and harnessing the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI).
Prime Minister Sunak announced substantial multi-year official development assistance (ODA) funding, which could exceed €100 million. This includes several high-impact projects in Africa and a €20 million expansion of the AI for Development programme into Asia, building on the €38 million already invested by the UK in Africa. This funding is part of the UK’s commitment to creating a more effective international system that benefits people globally and domestically.
AI for Development Programme Expansion
The AI for Development programme, initially launched at the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit in November 2023, aims to fund safe and responsible AI projects worldwide, starting in Africa. The UK-Canada partnership, supported by the US, Australia, and other partners, seeks to make AI technology accessible globally.
This initiative includes the establishment of new AI labs to train future developers, policymakers, and thought leaders in responsible and inclusive AI policies.
Among the funding announced, €57 million is allocated to the Climate Compatible Growth Programme. This programme will accelerate the development of climate-resilient infrastructure in developing countries. It will provide expertise to sub-Saharan Africa and Asia to support improved infrastructure that can withstand climate change.
Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa
The multi-year ODA funding includes up to €35 million for the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa. This alliance aims to boost investment in sustainable infrastructure projects across the continent, helping to bridge Africa’s infrastructure gap by accelerating large-scale green infrastructure projects.
ALSO READ: “Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s ‘Namaste’ Greeting At G7 Goes Viral”
Partnering with the World Bank and the EU, the UK will support African regional electricity transmission and strengthen climate resilience. €15 million will be contributed to the Zambian side of the Zambia-Tanzania Interconnector, part of a $300 million project linking the Southern and East African Power Pools. This investment will help Zambia access clean energy, essential for poverty reduction and economic development.
Support for African Development
An additional €300,000 will be allocated for mapping by the British Geological Survey in Angola, supporting economic development along the Lobito Corridor. Moreover, €500,000 will go towards an initiative to support green infrastructure planning between the UK, the Kenyan Government, and the wider G7.
This partnership will focus on transport projects selected from the Africa Green Industrialisation Initiative (AGII), enhancing cooperation on strategic infrastructure and investment.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s announcements at the G7 Leaders Summit highlight the UK’s commitment to driving global progress in sustainable development, clean energy, and responsible AI. The substantial financial commitments and international partnerships aim to create a more inclusive and resilient global infrastructure, benefiting countries worldwide.
Comments