Interviews — 5 Min Read

Address by H.E. Samira Bawumia at the AFRIWOCC PRE-COP28 Youth Climate Dialogue and Innovation Exhibition

Interviews — 5 Min Read

ADDRESS BY H.E. SAMIRA BAWUMIA AT THE AFRIWOCC PRE-COP28 YOUTH CLIMATE DIALOGUE AND INNOVATION EXHIBITION ON THE 21ST NOVEMBER 2023 AT THE WEST AFRICA CENTER FOR CROP IMPROVEMENT(WACCI), UNIVERSITY OF GHANA

Theme: Youth in Climate Action
It is a great pleasure to welcome each and every one of you today for the Africa Women and Children Conference (AFRIWOCC) Pre-COP28 Youth Climate Dialogue and Innovation Exhibition.
I am thrilled to see so many young leaders gathered here today to discuss climate change, sustainable development, and gender-related issues affecting women and children in the African context as well as showcase innovative climate solutions developed by young Africans.
AFRIWOCC is convened as a platform to discuss the impact of climate change on women, youth, and children in Africa, assess relevant mitigation and adaptation policies and projects, while utilizing indigenous knowledge as well as innovative ideas, and coordinate a network of organizations focused on women, and children in the climate change economy in Africa.

In August this year, AFRIWOCC organized its maiden conference which brought to the fore the urgency of amplifying the voices of women and children in the face of climate crisis. This groundbreaking initiative, 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. We participated in the Africa Climate Summit where we engaged several youth on the climate change subject. Consequently, together with UNDP, we are facilitating the participation of one hundred (100) youth from across the continent to participate in COP 28 in Dubai.

Today, we build upon that momentum, and we carry that spirit forward, focusing on the critical role of the youth in climate action while recognizing the unique energy, creativity, and determination you all bring to the global climate movement.
Today’s theme, “Youth in Climate Action,” captures the essence of our gathering. It signifies a collective acknowledgment that the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the architects of today’s transformative actions. In the context of the unprecedented climate crisis confronting us, the energy, drive, innovation, and commitment of the youth are indispensable in steering our planet towards a sustainable and resilient future.
Our world is at a critical juncture, facing environmental challenges that demand innovative ideas and solutions. The recent climate-related disasters across the globe are stark reminders of the urgency of our actions. The youth, as changemakers and advocates, have a unique role to play in changing the discourse and shaping policies and actions that will redefine the trajectory of our planet.

The AFRIWOCC conference underscored the importance of moving beyond rhetoric and translating commitments into tangible actions. Therefore, 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. Our discussions will 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 future.
Our continent is blessed with vibrant youth and rich cultural diversity. However, 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. It is time to leverage this power for the benefit of our planet.

I look forward to inspirational conversations and engagements we are going to have today.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, the goal for this event is clear: to provide a platform for the African youth to voice their perspectives, and concerns, share innovative ideas, and collaboratively address climate change, sustainable development, and gender-related issues affecting women and children in Africa.
We need to elevate the voices of the African youth, advocate for the financial backing that youth-led climate initiatives deserve, and support the youth-leaders amongst us who inspire and ensure that our solutions and stories drive our climate agenda. My commendation goes to all the inspiring youth advocates and dedicated exhibitors for
climate action, your passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to driving positive change are the driving force behind our collective journey towards a sustainable future.
Remember that your voices and your actions will define the legacy we leave for future generations. I challenge each one of you not to view this event as a mere conference but as a commitment to lead the charge in climate action. You are not here to merely discuss; you are here to be the visionaries, the solution architects, and the ambassadors of change. We look forward to shaping outcomes from this forum at COP28 in Dubai.
I extend my sincere appreciation to all our partners, sponsors, particularly the National Petroleum Authority, Energy Commission, and the Fidelity Bank Ghana, and esteemed guests for your invaluable contributions. Your commitment to empowering the youth in climate action is pivotal, and I am confident that our collaboration will inspire meaningful change. Following our deliberations today, we must carry on the passion, determination, and hope that have filled these halls. Together, we can reshape the destiny of Africa, by protecting our planet, and building the Africa we all dream of. Together we can ensure climate justice for Africa; with women and girls leading the way!

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