The Federal Ministry of Youth Development is backing the Climate Beyond Borders Caravan, a significant initiative designed to mobilize young Africans for climate action across 17 countries. This caravan aims to empower youth to push for grassroots climate solutions and sustainable development.
At the caravan’s launch in Abuja, Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande emphasized how creative and resilient Nigerian youth can tackle climate issues. He described them as “resourceful but underutilized,” highlighting the importance of their contributions to the climate crisis.
This initiative, organized by the People, Planet and Peace Foundation, carries the theme: “From Awareness to Action: Mobilizing Resourceful Nigerian Youth for Grassroots Climate Solutions.” It will travel through regions in West, East, Central, and Southern Africa to promote environmental action and eco-tourism.
Olawande pointed out that climate change is no longer a distant threat; it now impacts daily life in Nigeria. For instance, the North faces drought and desertification, while the South experiences floods and coastal erosion. Rising food prices also show how weather patterns disrupt agriculture, affecting Nigerian communities directly.
However, he also sees opportunities in climate challenges, especially for the youth. Engage in green entrepreneurship, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and eco-innovation are areas where young people can thrive, he noted.
The minister mentioned various government efforts, such as the Youth Migration and Climate Action Resilience Department, created under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Additionally, there’s a program called Waste to Wealth, aimed at generating jobs for 37,000 youths by converting waste into useful products.
He stressed the importance of collective action. Activities like tree planting and recycling remain crucial in combating climate change. The caravan will host a variety of events, including workshops in Ogun State and a climate walk in Lagos with the theme “Keep It Clean, Keep It Green.” These activities are designed to inspire grassroots engagement in environmental responsibility.
Dr. Joseph Omoniyi from the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology described the caravan as a way to identify local technologies that could solve climate-related issues in Africa. He mentioned the plan to create a database of indigenous solutions to share across countries. This resource could enhance youth involvement in environmental initiatives and strengthen Africa’s position in global climate talks.
Mariam Abdreshi, a Kenyan climate advocate, pointed out that climate change disproportionately affects women, making this initiative crucial for community development. She emphasized the need for collaboration between the youth and elders, so community wisdom can guide innovative actions.
Olatunji Olayiton-Francisco, the caravan’s leader, highlighted the goal of empowering young people with skills to address climate challenges in their communities. The caravan will continue to Benin and Togo, aiming to foster similar enthusiasm and advocacy in those areas.
Private sector representatives also voiced their commitment to climate action during the event. Ayo Ogunlowo, founder of Artuno and CarbonScope360, stressed the need for policies that encourage youth participation beyond mere awareness campaigns. He called for initiatives that provide tangible benefits to communities, advocating for locally developed solutions tailored to Africa’s unique contexts.
Recently, Ogunlowo’s organization launched a N100 million climate innovation fund to support sustainable businesses focused on projects like reusable sanitary pads and renewable energy. His team is dedicated to empowering more than 200 schoolchildren and advocating for women’s roles in environmental efforts.
This caravan signifies a major step toward a united front against climate change in Africa. As young people take charge, their combined efforts can lead to sustainable change, not just for today, but for future generations.
For more insights on climate action in Africa, visit UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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