Young Leaders Take Center Stage in Eastern Africa’s Climate Action and Food Security Efforts
Nairobi, Kenya — A groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering young people to tackle climate change and strengthen food systems in Eastern Africa has officially launched in Nairobi. The IGAD Regional Youth Coalition on Climate and Climate-Resilient Agri-Food Systems marks a pivotal moment in placing youth at the forefront of regional climate action, harnessing their energy and creativity to drive sustainable solutions.
The coalition was inaugurated by Fikirini Jacobs, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, who underscored the critical role of Africa’s youthful population in addressing climate challenges. “This is our opportunity to bring forth the energy, hope, and determination of young people to push systems and drive meaningful change,” Jacobs emphasized.
Africa, with its median age of just 19, is home to the world’s youngest population. Jacobs stressed that leveraging this demographic dividend is essential for the continent’s future. “If Africa, if our region, if our countries are to embrace any meaningful change, we must tap into the creativity and potential of young people,” she said.
A Region on the Frontlines of Climate Crisis
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region, which includes countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Uganda, is among the most climate-vulnerable areas globally. Nearly 70% of the landmass is arid or semi-arid, and agriculture, largely rain-fed, remains the backbone of local economies. However, climate shocks, including prolonged droughts and devastating floods, have displaced over 40 million people in recent years, exacerbating food insecurity and threatening livelihoods.
Sam Ogwal, IGAD Youth Envoy, described the coalition as a milestone initiative designed to unite fragmented youth efforts into a structured regional mechanism. “Our region is over 60% young people under 25, who are disproportionately affected by climate change,” Ogwal noted. “Yet, they are also innovators, adopters of technology, and powerful agents of change.”
The coalition aims to mobilize youth, strengthen access to climate services, promote climate-resilient agricultural systems, and amplify youth voices in regional and global climate processes. It also seeks to foster green entrepreneurship and innovation, ensuring young people are equipped to lead transformative efforts.
Harnessing Innovation and Collaboration
Charity Mumbua, a Food Security Specialist at IGAD, highlighted the coalition’s potential to amplify youth voices and influence policy. “The IGAD region is on the frontline of climate change impacts affecting food security and livelihoods. At the same time, young people are a powerful force for innovation, advocacy, and transformation,” she said.
Dr. Abdi Fidar, Director of the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), stressed the urgent need for improved climate prediction and technology adoption. “We live in a region where we are either dealing with water scarcity or floods,” he said, citing recent flooding in Mogadishu and Nairobi as examples of the extreme weather patterns plaguing the area. “Climate prediction and adaptation depend on innovation. To be relevant, young people must not only use technology but innovate with it.”
Prof. Tilahun Amede, Head of Resilience, Climate, and Soil Fertility at the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), emphasized agriculture’s vulnerability to climate shocks and the pivotal role of youth in transforming the sector. “Young people are emerging as key drivers of change, not only increasing productivity but also creating jobs and delivering services to farmers,” he said.
A Call for Action and Investment
The initiative has garnered widespread support from regional leaders and organizations. Gloria Wawira, CEO of Kenya’s National Youth Council, welcomed the coalition as a strategic platform for youth engagement. “This initiative creates space for young people to shape policy, build enterprises, and influence the future of our region,” she said.
Fuad Gena, President of the Ethiopian Youth Council, described the launch as a commitment to action rather than symbolism. “Our communities are already experiencing harsh realities—droughts, erratic rainfall, food insecurity, and loss of livelihoods,” he said. “Yet, within this challenge lies immense potential in the creativity and resilience of young people. We are not just beneficiaries—we are innovators and frontline responders.”
Stakeholders underscored that the coalition’s success will depend on sustained partnerships and investment in youth-led solutions. “This is your platform,” Jacobs told participants. “Our responsibility now is to ensure it delivers real impact and transforms communities across the region.”
The May 4 launch followed a technical session where stakeholders validated the coalition’s framework, governance structure, and initial work plan. With coordinated efforts and a unified voice, the coalition aims to drive inclusive, climate-resilient solutions that address the challenges of today while shaping a sustainable future for Eastern Africa.
— Reported by Nexio News
