Barbara Creecy’s story is one of transformation, from her roots as an anti-apartheid activist to becoming an icon of environmental protection and a key player in the global climate dialogues at COP28. With a career spanning diverse fields, from politics to education, finance and the environment, Creecy embodies the evolution of a visionary who has adapted her fight to the challenges of her time.
From activism to public management
Creecy began his political career in the struggle against apartheid, arming himself with a solid education with a degree in Political Science from the University of the Witwatersrand and a Masters in Public Policy and Management from the University of London. Joining the provincial legislature in 1994, she has held several influential positions, shaping social and educational policies with a progressive and inclusive vision.
Leadership in Education and Finance
Creecy revolutionized education as MEC for Education, introducing innovative strategies to improve performance in disadvantaged schools, an approach recognized by the UN. As MEC of Finance in Gauteng, she adopted a system of open public tenders, promoting transparency and efficiency, and laying the foundations for more accountable and efficient public management.
Commitment to the environment
Since her appointment as Minister of the Environment, Forestry and Fisheries in 2019, Creecy has been committed to promoting environmental sustainability. It has raised its voice for the protection of biodiversity and tackled the challenges of climate change, playing an active role in various initiatives and policies to preserve the environment.
Impact and Recognition
Creecy has been hailed for its effective leadership and ability to put successful public policies into practice. Her work in the environmental field has won her recognition both nationally and internationally, making her a leading figure in the fight for a sustainable future.
Barbara Creecy’s story is one of exceptional achievement, marked by passion, dedication and innovation. His unwavering commitment to the environment and his impressive career in public service have made him an influential and respected figure in South Africa and beyond. As she heads to COP28, her vision and experience are more relevant than ever, shaping the discussions and policies that will define the future of our planet.
Creecy brings its expertise and unique perspective to COP28. It addresses South Africa’s specific challenges and highlights the importance of recognizing different national circumstances in the global fight against climate change. His role as an intermediary in negotiations underlines his ability to navigate the complexities of global debates, while remaining true to his commitment to his country and continent.
AFP: How is South Africa affected by the climate crisis?
Barbara Creecy: “The African continent is warming twice as fast as the global average. In our country, the climate is already 2.2 degrees warmer on average, and we are experiencing extreme weather phenomena:
floods, droughts, fires, storms and rising sea levels.” “We are determined to make the best possible contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, taking into account national circumstances. But we also call on the international community, and in particular the developed countries, to help us achieve our emission reduction targets, and to strengthen our commitment to the Kyoto Protocol.
resilience in the face of climate change.”
AFP: What challenges does South Africa face in its energy transition?
Barbara Creecy: “South Africa is currently facing energy insecurity and shortages. We are 90% dependent on coal-fired power generation, and due to the inadequate performance of these plants, it is very difficult to keep to the timetable for their decommissioning.”
“Nevertheless, we remain committed to the energy transition, but it will be very important to ensure that we have more megawatts of energy on the grid before we can shut down power plants. It’s a complex balance to strike, to make sure we meet climate targets while preserving energy security.”
AFP: Should the world agree to phase out
all fossil fuels at COP28?
Barbara Creecy: “The problem we face as developing countries is one of national circumstances: we have a common responsibility, but we have different national circumstances and different capabilities.”
“Developing countries should not have to choose between strengthening their climate resilience and achieving their sustainable development goals. We need to do both.” “And we need help to do it. But there’s no new, predictable, large-scale funding on the table for that. So we continue to make the case for public climate finance commitments to be met (by developed countries,Editor’s note).”
