Ambassador Kpoto Champions Technology and Trade for Climate Resilience
By G Bennie Bravo Johnson
During the 2nd African Climate Summit in Addis, Ambassador Stephene Audrey Kpoto posed a thought-provoking question: “Could Africa lead rather than just adapting? How could we (AFRICA) use trade and investment frameworks to promote Africa’s Climate and Economic Resilience?” Ambassador Kpoto emphasized that digitization initiatives and agro-technologies could play a pivotal role in promoting healthier food production processes.
On September 9, 2025, she explained, “To tackle Africa’s Climate Issues and Economic issues remain, one side of the coin, but a very important aspect.” She further noted that technology covers health, food production, infrastructure, and more, stressing that this is not just because of her tech background, but because it represents a way Africa can lead.
She highlighted the importance of transforming natural resources into tangible products, suggesting, “How about compelling an industrial institution to bring the factories home and transform resources into tangibles or we don’t ship there?” Ambassador Kpoto also underlined the need for adequate food and provisions, adding that digitization is critical for tracking systems, trade platforms, and other tools that can enhance continental resilience. “We can leverage technology greatly to advance Climate smart trade as a continent,” she said.
Beyond technology, Ambassador Kpoto stressed the importance of collective action, noting, “Furthermore, the other side of the coin is inclusive of patriotism and standing as a collective thrust instead of selfishly using the I, ME or MYSELF mentality.”
She also hinted at upcoming initiatives in Liberia to further integrate technology and innovation, including Smart Agriculture projects to contribute to food security, and the creation of a lab to empower talented youths in Technology, Economic, and Climate Resilience.
Ambassador Kpoto’s remarks come amid growing debates on Africa’s role in global climate leadership. While adaptation has long been the focus, her perspective emphasizes that technology, digitization, and collective patriotism could position the continent not just as a responder but as a leader in climate-smart economic growth.
