Youths in Lilongwe have cal l ed for a greater role in climate change adaptation decision-making processes, saying they are among the most affected by the negative impacts of environmental degradation.
They made the call on Monday in Lilongwe during the Youth Climate Adaptation Action Day which Mthunzi Trust organised at Mkwichi Secondary School with support from the Global Centre on Adaptation.
Speaking in an interview, Form Three student from Maya Private Secondary School in Lilongwe Isumailah Yussuf, described the meeting as an eye-opening experience.
“We have learned that young people like us can make a big difference by taking part in local climate initiatives and influencing decision-makers,” he said.
On his par t, Mthunzi Trust chief executive officer Symon Satiele said the youth shared the challenges they face due to climate change, including droughts that cause hunger and floods that disrupt education.
“We believe the future of climate resilience depends on how well we prepare and empower young people,” he said.
Green Children Organisation representative Simon Kalua said the country needs to prioritise youth inclusion in policymaking if climate adaptation efforts are to be effective.
“Young people are not just victims of climate change, but active players who can influence decisions that shape a sustainable future,” he said.
The meeting was held under the theme ‘Engaging youth in nationally determined contributions and adaptation plans’, with support from Sida Civil Society Organisation Capaci ty St rengthening Programme which Save the Children is implementing in Malawi in partnership with Mthunzi Trust.
The event was part of a global initiative aimed at empowering young people to actively contribute to climate adaptation efforts, particularly through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans
