UNDP is participating in the 38th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol (MOP38), taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, from 2 to 6 November 2026. This year's meeting also marks 10 years since the adoption of the Kigali Amendment, a major milestone in global efforts to reduce hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), powerful greenhouse gases used primarily in cooling and refrigeration.

Throughout the week, UNDP is highlighting its work with countries and partners to advance sustainable cooling and support the implementation of the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment. Activities include a side event on green cold chains in Africa and the Middle East, as well as a photo booth and a special campaign featuring polar bear and penguin plush toys to mark the anniversary.

Photos courtesy of the CoolUp Program

Side Event: Case Studies and Opportunities to Build the Green Cold Chain in Africa and MENA

Date: Monday, 2 November 2026
Time: 18:00–19:55
Venue: Room MH2-A, Kigali, Rwanda

As countries seek to strengthen food security and resilient infrastructure, the development of green cold chains has become an increasingly important priority. Green cold chain solutions based on energy-efficient technologies, ozone and climate-friendly refrigerants, and renewable energy offer significant opportunities to support economic development while reducing environmental impacts.

Across the Middle East and Africa, governments, industry, and development partners are implementing innovative approaches to sustainable cooling and cold chain development. Through policy support, demonstration projects, and market-based initiatives, valuable experience is emerging on how to deploy ozone and climate-friendly technologies, create enabling environments, and attract investment for long-term market transformation.

Bringing together representatives from governments, civil society, academia, and industry stakeholders, the event will showcase practical case studies from the countries in MENA and Africa and discuss the opportunities of scaling up the green cold chain solutions. 
 

Moderator: Paloma Somohano, UNDP