Amidst South Africa's prominent fossil fuel industry, the transition to renewable energy poses considerable challenges, highlighted by Saad Cachalia, the Ambassador of South Africa to the UAE. Despite the necessity of embracing renewable sources due to climate change, the country's strong reliance on coal for electricity generation and its significant role in the economy make this shift a complex endeavour.

Cachalia emphasizes the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the country's energy landscape, acknowledging the difficulties in moving away from traditional fuel resources. While stressing the reality of climate change impacts, including flooding and unusual snowfall in South Africa, he underscores the economic and social complexities associated with transitioning away from coal, especially concerning employment in mining-centric regions.

He advocates for developed nations' accountability in addressing climate change, asserting their responsibility to assist developing nations in sustainable transitions. This support, particularly financial aid, becomes pivotal in enabling viable alternatives to coal and fossil fuels. Cachalia lauds the UAE's proactive stance in sustainable development, urging other nations to follow suit in assisting developing countries.

Drawing parallels between the success of Expo 2020 Dubai and the forthcoming COP28 discussions hosted by the UAE, Cachalia expresses optimism about COP28's potential impact. He believes the conference will propel climate change discussions forward, similar to the strides made during Expo 2020, as evidenced by South Africa's commitment demonstrated by its president's active participation in the talks.