The Baku Initiative Group has staged a silent protest rally at the ongoing 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, drawing attention to the environmental degradation caused by colonial-era nuclear tests and other exploitative practices.
The rally, which focused on the environmental consequences of colonization and the harmful effects of nuclear weapons testing, emphasized the right to live in a healthy and sustainable environment.
Participants included eco-activists and human rights defenders from historically colonized African countries such as Mali, Nigeria, Djibouti, Togo, Mauritania, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Executive Director Afro Optonet Association, AHOA, Dr. Uzodinma Adriejie highlighted the long-term environmental damage caused by nuclear weapons testing, oil drilling, and other colonial activities.
He emphasized that these practices have not only degraded the environment but also negatively impacted investment opportunities in affected regions.
“The legacies of colonialism, including environmental degradation from nuclear tests and unsustainable resource exploitation, continue to harm our ecosystems and communities.
“We demand action and accountability to address these injustices and ensure a healthier environment for all,” he said.
The protest is part of the broader discussions at COP29, which have included a focus on the rights of marginalized communities and the environmental challenges faced by post-colonial nations.
Participants called on global leaders to take concrete steps to address the lingering impacts of colonial exploitation, including investing in environmental restoration and adopting policies that prioritize equity and justice.
The Baku Initiative Group reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness about the intersection of colonialism and environmental harm while advocating for meaningful solutions to build a sustainable future for affected communities.
By Dare Akogun
