By Abbas Nazil
Liberian youths are taking an active role in the fight against climate change, determined to influence policies and drive action at home.
Their commitment was evident at the National Youth Post-COP29 Conference held in Monrovia on February 12, 2025, where climate advocates gathered to discuss key outcomes of COP29 and strategize their involvement in shaping Liberia’s climate policies.
Organized by the Liberian Youth for Climate Action (LYCA) and supported by ActionAid Liberia, the conference focused on strengthening youth participation in climate discussions and action.
During COP29, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, world leaders, scientists, and activists engaged in discussions on crucial climate issues such as climate finance, adaptation strategies, and loss and damage.
Liberian youths played a significant role in these conversations, participating in side events, negotiations, and bilateral meetings.
For them, climate change is not just an abstract global crisis but a reality impacting their daily lives.
Severe flooding, coastal erosion, and unpredictable weather patterns continue to threaten livelihoods and displace families, making their involvement in climate action imperative.
Ezekiel Nyanfor, Executive Director of LYCA, emphasized the importance of youth engagement beyond COP29, advocating for sustained coordination between young climate professionals and the Liberian government.
He highlighted the need for youth voices in climate-related policies, ensuring that their perspectives are included in national and international discussions.
Liberia, a country with nearly 70 percent of its landmass covered in forests, holds a crucial position in global climate mitigation efforts.
However, it remains highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
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Benjamin Karmoh, Chief Technical Advisor and UNFCCC Focal Point at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), reflected on Liberia’s stance at COP29, particularly regarding climate financing.
He pointed out that the expected $1 trillion in climate finance fell short of what was needed, leaving vulnerable nations like Liberia struggling to secure adequate support for adaptation and resilience-building efforts.
Despite this setback, he urged young people to stay engaged and advocate for climate finance that prioritizes vulnerable communities.
Hon. Ansu V. S. Dulleh Sr., Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), echoed concerns about Liberia’s increasing exposure to climate-induced disasters.
He stressed that the country is already experiencing the effects of climate change, with coastal erosion washing away homes, floods devastating livelihoods, and unpredictable weather patterns making it difficult for farmers to sustain food production.
He called on young people to take leadership roles in climate action, raising awareness and pushing for policies that protect communities.
For many youth advocates present at the conference, the discussions underscored the urgency of ensuring young people have a seat at the table when policies are being formulated.
Hawa Karlie, a climate advocate, stressed that youth inclusion in decision-making processes is crucial for addressing climate change effectively.
She urged the government to create opportunities for young people to contribute to policy discussions, emphasizing that they are not just future leaders but leaders in the present.
The National Youth Post-COP29 Conference concluded with a renewed commitment from young climate advocates to take action locally while remaining engaged in global climate negotiations.
Among the notable attendees were Hon. Ibrahim Nyei, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, and representatives from the Federation of Liberia Youth.
Participants reaffirmed their determination to lead climate action efforts in their communities, ensuring that the youth remain at the forefront of the fight against climate change.
Their message was clear: young people will not be passive observers but active changemakers, demanding climate justice and sustainable solutions for their country and future generations.
