Innovative youth-led climate solutions take center stage at COP29

In sessions attended by diverse stakeholders, young climate champions shared their experiences, best practices, and technologies aimed at addressing climate shocks on farms and in enterprises. 

They emphasized the vital role young people play in driving sustainable agricultural practices and building resilience to climate impacts, demonstrating their commitment to creating a sustainable future.

Young agripreneurs from across the continent presented real-life examples of how they are adapting to changing climate conditions. 

These included the use of drought-resistant crop varieties, renewable energy, water-efficient irrigation techniques, and agroforestry practices. 

These innovative solutions are not only helping communities withstand climate impacts but also improving food security and livelihoods. 

Their efforts underscored the potential for transformative change in agriculture, even in the face of significant challenges.

Marcia Manhica, Vice President of the Association for Health and Rural Development in Mozambique, stressed the urgency of global collective action, stating, “Climate change is the greatest threat to our existence on the planet. 

No one will be able to escape its consequences if we do not unite to combat this phenomenon. 

The planet without us will always be a planet, but we cannot exist without the planet.” Similarly, Dolphine Magero, Founder of the Green Youth Climate Fund Initiative, highlighted the critical need for climate finance that supports youth-led initiatives. 

She called for COP29 to prioritize food security by allocating at least 10% of climate finance to youth-driven, climate-resilient projects, including grant-based mechanisms such as the Climate Friendly School Feeding Programme.

Beyond presenting their adaptation strategies, the youth shared 11 key recommendations drawn from the African Common Position on Youth, Food Systems, and Climate Action, as well as the Kigali Declaration. 

These recommendations called for investments in youth-centered food systems and climate policies, improved access to resources and funding for young farmers, and enhanced capacity building and knowledge sharing. 

They also emphasized the need for technological innovation in agriculture, inclusive and gender-equitable policies, acceleration of agro-industrial development, and value chain integration. 

Additionally, the recommendations urged the mobilization of youth as key actors in climate action, the fostering of collaboration and partnerships for youth empowerment, stronger policy and advocacy frameworks with youth involvement, and increased climate action financing for Africa.

The events at COP29 highlighted the critical role of African youth in creating resilient food systems capable of withstanding the pressures of climate change. 

Their participation demonstrated their ingenuity and determination to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, while also emphasizing the need for sustained support and investment in youth-led initiatives.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Jeremiah Rogito, Specialist for Food Systems, Land Use, and Climate at AGRA and Lead for the AGRA Youth Delegation at COP29, commended the youth for their leadership and innovative solutions. 

“African youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers of today. At COP29, we have witnessed their resilience, creativity, and determination in addressing the most pressing challenge of our time—climate change. Through their innovative approaches to sustainable and climate-resilient food systems, these young leaders are setting a powerful example for the world. Now, more than ever, we must invest in their potential and amplify their voices to ensure a sustainable future for all,” he said.