The Green Gold Youth Climate Summit, held on August 31, 2024, at August Memorial Park in Nairobi, brought together a passionate group of young environmentalists, organizations, and experts committed to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. The summit, organized with the support of partners such as KIUESA, SCI NAC, YMCA, Mama Doing Good, Roam Electric, PACJA, and the Ministry of Environment, created a platform for youth to engage in critical discussions and collaborative action on climate change.
Keynote Addresses
Several influential voices shared their insights with a strong emphasis on the role of young people in climate action.
Kaluki Paul from KEAN International opened the summit by highlighting the power of youth in driving climate solutions. He encouraged young people to confidently enter decision-making spaces and to collaborate beyond just providing financial support. Kaluki provided an example of a young Kenyan who used black soldier flies to manage urban waste, illustrating the significance of youth-led initiatives in sustainability efforts.
He also referenced the African philosophy of Ubuntu—”I am what I am because of who we all are”—to emphasize the importance of global cooperation. Kaluki urged participants to focus on biodiversity conservation, combat desertification, and actively engage in international climate platforms like the upcoming COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Kaluki’s message revolved around overcoming imposter syndrome, participating in policy processes, and securing micro-grants to support integrity-driven activism, urging activists to be the voice of reason for their communities..
Ernest Mwendwa, CEO of SCI NAC, introduced his organization’s efforts to merge science with nature for sustainable solutions. He announced an upcoming webinar series on GMOs aimed at addressing Africa’s food security challenges, generating significant interest..
Michael Ondudo, Chairperson of KIUESA, emphasized the importance of instilling environmental conservation values in youth and children. He also announced a seminar on energy technologies at the University of Nairobi in October.
Panel Discussion Highlights
During a lively panel session moderated by Victor Ominde, various topics were discussed including women’s representation in climate change, scaling local initiatives to the global level, and the role of technology in environmental action.
Irene Kamau (SCI NAC) emphasized the essential role of women in climate action and called for their empowerment in leadership roles. She shared the impactful story of the hummingbird—small but mighty in its efforts to fight the forest fire.
Nangila Wafula (KEAN International) stressed the need for organizations to focus on capacity development, urging youth to build on existing skills and avoid spreading themselves too thin. Her advice to young innovators was to join established organizations, package themselves well, and secure intellectual property protection in a global market that often undermines African innovations.
Please take note of the following key points from the panel discussion:
1. Women in Climate Action: Women, especially those involved in grassroots movements, play a crucial role in environmental conservation and should be empowered to take on leadership roles.
2. Empowering Youth: It is important to provide young people with more platforms to showcase their ideas and ensure that financial constraints do not hinder their activism.
3. Scaling Local Initiatives: Local projects should focus on achieving measurable impacts, secure funding through strong organizational structures, and avoid taking on too many roles simultaneously.
4. Role of Technology: Technology should be adapted to the local context and emphasize community engagement.
5. Strengthening Partnerships: Collaboration, including with governments, is essential for effective climate action, with all parties working towards a common purpose.
Audience Questions
During the summit, there was a specific question regarding the effects of climate change on individuals with skin conditions like vitiligo and albinism. Irene Kamau emphasized the heightened risks associated with UV rays and recommended further research to create affordable protective solutions, such as locally made creams using native African plants.
Conclusion
The Green Gold Youth Climate Summit was a resounding success, highlighting the urgency of youth involvement in climate action and encouraging collaboration across all sectors. The momentum continues to build with future events like the launch of the Green Gold App in mid-October, fostering greater engagement and policy advocacy.
As Kaluki Paul reminded us, “Alone we can go faster, but together we can go far.” The Green Gold Youth Climate Summit exemplified this spirit of collaboration, ensuring that the next generation is not only heard but empowered to lead.
Author
Naima Mohammed – KEAN International member
We thank Naima for sharing this insightful blog post and for her continued efforts in championing youth leadership in climate action.
