African youth are taking the lead in innovating and finding solutions to climate change challenges, even with limited resources and support.
President William Ruto made these remarks during the inauguration of the Africa Youth Climate Assembly in Nairobi.
The week-long Africa Youth Climate Assembly (AYCA) has brought together a diverse cohort of young leaders, activists, innovators, and change-makers from across Africa.
Under the theme "African-led Solutions to Global Challenges," the assembly emphasizes the unique climate-related vulnerabilities faced by African nations and their substantial contributions to global climate solutions.
The assembly will formulate the Africa Youth Declaration, a policy statement representing African youth's aspirations and demands regarding climate change, to be presented at The Africa Climate Summit.
The head of state expressed his confidence in the potential of Africa's youth, highlighting their innovations despite facing limited financing and support. He emphasized the importance of young people's involvement in tackling climate change, stating that they represent the continent's future.
"We are going to change the approach of the continent of Africa," President Ruto said.
He added: "We are going to sit at that table and give our ideas and suggest our proposals and make sure that we are part of the solution, not just a victim. And I encourage you as young people to do the same."
Highlighting the significance of the Youth Assembly, President Ruto emphasized that it represents the stakeholders with the greatest stake in the planet's present and future.
He urged young people to insist on making their way to the decision-making table, saying, "If you're not on the table, you probably and most likely be on the menu, and I do not want any young person or any one of us to be on the menu."
President Ruto outlined the potential of Africa's youth, stating that by 2050, Africa will comprise 25 per cent of the global workforce and 40 per cent by 2100.
He stressed that their energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and innovative drive can revolutionize not only Africa but the entire world.
He also underlined the critical role of renewable energy and natural resources in Africa's fight against climate change.
President Ruto emphasised that these elements, combined with the youth's contributions, are essential for the technical feasibility and commercial viability of climate solutions.
The President underscored the urgency of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, as failure to do so would have catastrophic consequences.
He cited the results of a recent youth survey that showed 90 per cent of Kenya's young people and a significant percentage of youth in Egypt and Nigeria are concerned about climate change's impact on their communities.
President Ruto's optimism for Africa's future stems from the belief that the continent's youth is a crucial part of the solution. He stated that Africa has the capacity to expand its economy while addressing climate change, offering climate-smart solutions and green growth.
President Ruto called on Africa's youth to continue advocating for climate action, emphasizing their role in creating a green, prosperous future. He acknowledged the importance of the Youth Assembly in shaping Africa's position on climate change and promised to make it a central focus of the African declaration.
Abigael Kima, a youth climate change advocate, expressed her confidence in the power of young people to drive change through innovative ideas and unified solutions.
"This Youth Climate Assembly is a critical one because it brings our youthful voices together and offers us an opportunity to have unified solutions for the continent. It is our historic moment to collectively advocate, influence and demand for strong political will on climate policies that will end this climate emergency," Kima said.
The African Union's Climate Change and Resilient Development Strategy and Action Plan for 2022-2032 align closely with the assembly's goals.
AYCA aims to amplify the voices of African youth, fostering the exchange of innovative ideas, showcasing impactful projects, and advocating for effective climate policies that prioritize African communities' needs.
AYCA will influence climate discourse at upcoming events, including the United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Secretary-General's Climate Ambition Summit, COP28, and the African Union Heads of States Assembly in February 2024.
Among those who graced the event were The African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson - Moussa Faki Mahamat, African Development Bank President - Akinwumi A Adesina and African Union Youth Envoy - Chido Mpemba.
Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya spoke of the importance of green jobs, not only as a source of employment but also as a means for young people to directly contribute to climate action.
"Tackling climate change required a concerted effort from governments and individuals alike. It was not just a matter of policy; it was a collective responsibility," she said.
She encouraged youth involvement in environmental initiatives and the development of their leadership skills in climate action.
