Nairobi, 4th September 2023 - The African Union Chairperson's Youth Envoy Ms.Chido Mpemba delivered a compelling address on the sidelines of the opening of the Africa Climate Summit at an event hosted by Her Excellency Madam Rachel Ruto, the First Lady of Kenya. Themed "The Big Opportunity: Education and Skills Development for a Climate-Adapted and Green Economy," the event highlighted critical strategies to engage youth in advancing the coalition's objectives.

The first lady of Kenya passionately emphasized that “The power to shape our world lies in each of us, but especially in our young people. Let us empower them to become the driving force in our mission to protect our environment for them and future generations.”

Speaking as part of the moderated panel, alongside the first lady of Sierra Leonne and Deputy Executive Secretary for the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA),  Ms. Chido Mpemba emphasized the pivotal role of education and skills development in engaging young and stressed the necessity of revamping educational systems across Africa to equip youth with knowledge and abilities essential for a sustainable green economy. This transformation involves integrating climate change education, sustainable agricultural practices, renewable energy technologies, and environmental sciences into curricula at all levels.

As a run-up to the start of the Africa Climate Summit, Ms. Chido inaugurated the Africa Climate Youth Assembly alongside the President of Kenya, H.E Dr William Ruto, and the closing with the President of the Africa Development Bank (AFDB), Dr Akinwinu Adesina. This symbolic gesture emphasized the importance of youth involvement in climate financing and set the tone for the summit's youth-focused agenda.

The President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E William Ruto commended young Africans for their tenacity and urged them to focus their energy on tackling existing climate problems. Addressing the diverse young leaders, activists, innovators, and change-makers from across Africa in the audience, H.E Ruto said: “African youth must be solution-oriented. Being here and holding this event, you fought your way and continue demanding the opportunity that you deserve.”

In leading by example towards climate action, Ms. Chido Mpemba dedicated a day during the summit to plant 100 fruit trees at a local community in Kibera, Nairobi , serving the dual purpose of promoting food security and as her contribution in offsetting carbon footprints. This act highlighted the importance of tangible actions in addressing climate change while improving the lives of vulnerable communities.

In partnership with the European Union International Partners Unit, the AU  Youth Envoy organized a youth climate action workshop. The workshop provided a platform for young climate activists from across Africa to exchange ideas, share experiences, and formulate strategies for climate action. The partnership with the EU underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate challenges and global inequalities.

Ms. Chido Mpemba wrapped up her engagements in Nairobi by participating in a breakfast meeting with the COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber.

“I'm in awe of the the youth effort in tackling climate change head-on. You bring insightful perspectives based on your differing backgrounds and passion" Dr. Sultan Al Jaber said as he underscored the presidency's commitment to embed youth and children across all COP28-led engagements. He was also joined by COP28 Climate Youth Champion, Minister of Community Development, H.E Sharma.

This meeting served as a critical platform for discussing meaningful youth engagement and participation ahead of the  Conference of Youth (COY28)  and COP28 to be held from the 30^th of November to the 12^th of December 2023 in the United Arab Emirates - UAE. The AU Youth Envoy's efforts to foster dialogue between youth representatives and global leaders showcased their dedication to ensuring the youth's presence and influence at international climate negotiations.

For more information Contact

Mr. Idris Muktar Ibrahim, | Office of the Youth Envoy | African Union Commission Tel: +15104961639 | E-mail: IbrahimI@african-union.org| Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org

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