The transition to a low carbon economy to mitigate against the impact of climate change is a complex issue, especially on the African continent, part of the developing world. The African continent will be disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change, while only contributing to 4% global emissions.  Therefore, strategies must be adopted to assist developing countries to curb the impacts of climate change through their transitions, as outlined in the Paris agreement. These climate negotiations are tabled at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) conference of parties (COP) and this year’s 27th COP will be held from 6–18 November in Egypt. This location will bring the focus to Africa, providing an opportunity for a strong African voice to be dominant and for issues that are specific to Africa to be resolved.