Climate change conference amplifies youth voices
Namibia's second local conference of youth and the inaugural National Youth Climate Change Summit, hosted by the National Youth Council of Namibia and the National Youth Climate Action Network of Namibia (Youth4CAN), kicked off on Tuesday and was set to take place over the course of three days from 11 to 13 July at the Mercure Hotel in Windhoek.
The event aimed to empower Namibian youth in addressing climate change issues and advocating for their rights through the development of Namibia's national youth statement on climate change.
The event was inaugurated by the junior mayor of the City of Windhoek, Sylvia Shapumba. In her opening remarks, Shapumba emphasised the need for youth to translate their words into action. She called for the development of a national youth climate change statement to guide future efforts in addressing climate challenges effectively.
In recent years, Namibia has witnessed a rise in youth-led initiatives focused on climate action, ranging from environmental clubs in schools to community-based projects and organisations like Youth4CAN, EduVentures and WomenInAgriculture. These initiatives exemplify the leadership of Namibian youth in implementing practical solutions in areas such as renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.
“The involvement of youth is paramount in the fight against climate change," environmental commissioner Timo Mufeti said during his keynote address, delivered on behalf of his line minister Pohamba Shifeta.
"Youth education is one of the most effective tools to combat the destructive potential of climate change and to cultivate an international understanding among generations,” he added.
Meanwhile, the European Union ambassador to Namibia, Sinikka Antila, also delivered a statement, applauding Namibia's efforts in combatting climate change. She announced the establishment of the Youth Sounding Board, an initiative aiming to enhance youth engagement and cooperation with partner countries. The Youth Sounding Board will provide a platform for meaningful engagement, allowing young people to advise the European Union delegation on climate change matters. The selection process for candidates serving a one-year term is currently underway.
The event aimed to empower Namibian youth in addressing climate change issues and advocating for their rights through the development of Namibia's national youth statement on climate change.
The event was inaugurated by the junior mayor of the City of Windhoek, Sylvia Shapumba. In her opening remarks, Shapumba emphasised the need for youth to translate their words into action. She called for the development of a national youth climate change statement to guide future efforts in addressing climate challenges effectively.
In recent years, Namibia has witnessed a rise in youth-led initiatives focused on climate action, ranging from environmental clubs in schools to community-based projects and organisations like Youth4CAN, EduVentures and WomenInAgriculture. These initiatives exemplify the leadership of Namibian youth in implementing practical solutions in areas such as renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.
“The involvement of youth is paramount in the fight against climate change," environmental commissioner Timo Mufeti said during his keynote address, delivered on behalf of his line minister Pohamba Shifeta.
"Youth education is one of the most effective tools to combat the destructive potential of climate change and to cultivate an international understanding among generations,” he added.
Meanwhile, the European Union ambassador to Namibia, Sinikka Antila, also delivered a statement, applauding Namibia's efforts in combatting climate change. She announced the establishment of the Youth Sounding Board, an initiative aiming to enhance youth engagement and cooperation with partner countries. The Youth Sounding Board will provide a platform for meaningful engagement, allowing young people to advise the European Union delegation on climate change matters. The selection process for candidates serving a one-year term is currently underway.
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