In the context of the unprecedented climate crisis confronting the country, the wife of the Vice- President, Samira Bawumia, has indicated that the commitment of the youth was indispensable in a sustainable and resilient future.
“…commitments of the youth are indispensable in steering our planet towards a sustainable and resilient future,” she said.
Madam Samira was speaking at the Africa Women and Children Conference (AFRIWOCC) Pre-COP Youth Climate Dialogue and Innovation Exhibition in Accra Tuesday, this week.
She emphasised that the youth, as change-makers and advocates, have a unique role to play in changing the discourse and shaping policies and actions that will redefine the trajectory of the planet.
Addressing the gathering under the theme, “Youth in Climate Action,” she said it signifies a collective acknowledgment that the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the architects of today’s transformative actions.
The AFRIWOCC initiative, according to the Second Lady, born out of a collective commitment to address the pressing issues faced by women and children, serves as a testament to the power of global collaboration and the unwavering dedication to a sustainable future.
She continued that, “this Pre-COP Youth Climate Dialogue and Innovation Exhibition presents an opportunity for us to harness the creativity, passion, and determination of the youth in addressing climate change.”
The purpose of the pre-COP dialogue, she further explained, was to focus on practical steps, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts to ensure that the youth are not just part of the conversation, but are actively shaping the narrative.
“It is also one of the region’s most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. Our youth have a unique perspective and an unparalleled ability to embrace change,” she reinstated.
It is as a result of this she advised that it is time to leverage this power for the benefit of the planet.
“From sustainable energy solutions to eco-friendly innovations, Africa’s youth have the potential to revolutionise the way we approach climate challenges. I look forward to inspirational conversations and engagements we are going to have today,” Mr’s. Bawumia added.
The Executive Secretary of Energy Commission, Ing. Oscar Amono-Neizer, who also addressed the gathering, said Africa, with this bridge of diversity and potential, stood at a crucial juncture in the global efforts to combat climate change.
He noted that the decisions we make today will not only shape the future of our nations, but will determine the wellbeing of generations to come.
As the country moves towards COP-28 Ing. Amono-Neizer admonished that it was imperative to involve and empower the youths in the conversations and actions that will shape our collective future.
He underscored that the Energy sector in particular plays a pivotal role in the transition to sustainable and low carbon future.
“As far as climate change it concern it is imperative to create an enabling environment that fosters youth engagements and empowers them to be leaders in the fight against climate change,” he emphasised.
