The main objective of the current session is to provide a platform for environment ministers to deliberate on substantive issues of importance to Africa that must be tackled in the context of desertification, continuing negotiations on climate change and biodiversity. The ministers will consider the indicative AMCEN work programme for 2011–2012. They will also review progress made towards Africa’s preparations for developing a common negotiating position on a comprehensive international climate change regime beyond 2012; the development of a comprehensive framework of African climate change programmes; and Africa’s preparations for developing a common negotiating position on an international regime on access to and the sharing of the benefits of genetic resources.