By Abbas Nazil
Youth representatives from across Africa have called for greater inclusion in climate decision-making processes, urging both governments and international stakeholders to provide them with a stronger voice in shaping environmental policies.
The demand was made during the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) Pre-COP Meeting held in Dar es Salaam, where youth delegates emphasized unity, innovation, and collaboration as essential tools in confronting the continent’s worsening climate challenges.
The Director of Civil Society Organisations, Sara Pima, highlighted the importance of involving young people in high-level climate discussions, saying that youth participation fosters accountability and innovation.
She explained that when young people are part of policy-making platforms, they help raise public awareness and bring fresh perspectives that contribute to protecting both present and future generations.
Her statement reinforced the growing recognition that Africa’s youth, who make up a large share of the continent’s population, are not only victims of climate change but also vital agents of change in building sustainable solutions.
Presidential Advisor on Environment and Climate Change, Dr Richard Uyungi, echoed this view, stressing that young people are among the most affected by the climate crisis and must be actively involved in environmental planning and policy implementation.
He described empowering youth participation as a moral and strategic commitment to safeguarding Africa’s sustainable future, noting that meaningful youth inclusion would help align national priorities with global climate goals.
Representing young Africans at the event, Ibrahim Hailillahi Usman from Ghana said the meeting gave participants the opportunity to better understand the continent’s environmental challenges and define the role of youth in driving transformative solutions.
He added that African youth seek a unified and coordinated voice in global negotiations, emphasizing that solidarity across nations would strengthen their influence in shaping international climate policies.
Similarly, Abby Chebet from Kenya underscored the importance of regional cooperation and youth unity, saying that collaboration across borders is essential for addressing the climate crisis and promoting sustainable development.
The AGN Pre-COP Meeting brought together climate experts, government officials, and youth leaders from various African countries to harmonize Africa’s position ahead of the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP).
The forum served as a platform for sharing ideas, aligning strategies, and reaffirming Africa’s commitment to a collective approach in tackling the environmental challenges that threaten the continent’s future.
Participants concluded that empowering young Africans to participate meaningfully in climate governance is not just about representation but about securing a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for the continent.