Providence Moyo
Bulawayo – Young people in Southern Africa have been challenged to take immediate action against climate change, which is expected to have devastating consequences on their future.
Lieberman Bhebhe, Coordinator of the Southern Africa Alliance on Youth Employment, made the call during a stakeholder engagement hosted by the Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD) in partnership with Save The Children, SayWhat, and other organizations at Bulawayo Holiday Inn.
“Young people are suffering now due to climate change, and if we don’t take responsibility, we will suffer even more in the future,” Bhebhe warned. “The consequences of inaction will only intensify if we fail to act. We face a 2.1% rise in extreme temperatures, a 30% decline in agricultural productivity, and a 50% increase in water scarcity.”
Khumbulani Maphosa, from the Matebeleland Institute for Human Rights, emphasized the importance of creating thriving ecosystems for opportunities.
“Young people must recognize that their future is intricately linked to the health of our planet. Creating thriving ecosystems is not just about environmental sustainability, but also about unlocking economic opportunities and securing a livable future for ourselves and generations to come.”
Anglistone Sibanda, Founder and CEO of the African Carbon Markets Forum, urged young people to develop carbon projects and seize financial opportunities within the environmental sector.
“The Paris Agreement and Carbon Markets Economy offer numerous opportunities for young entrepreneurs,” Sibanda said. “It’s time for young people to take the lead in addressing climate change and creating a sustainable future.”
The stakeholder engagement aimed to mobilize young people to take action against climate change and promote sustainable development in Southern Africa.
