COP 29 AFRICAN YOUTH DELEGATES FUNDRAISING

Young African changemakers working tirelessly on the ground to make a difference are often left behind when it's time for key negotiations at global platforms like COP and UNGA. Despite Africa being the continent most affected by climate change, contributing only 4% of global emissions, the socio-economic and financial constraints of many youth leaders prevent them from attending these crucial events.

As African governments, organisations like SADC, the African Development Bank, IGAD, and even the African Union, continue to handpick a select few "system darlings," many passionate, less-privileged youth voices are sidelined. Meanwhile, our leaders attend to network and speak well of their countries, rarely addressing the real challenges their citizens face, those who depend on natural resources and firsthand experience the devastating effects of climate change.

Every year, African youth write proposal after proposal, knocking on company doors for sponsorship to attend these vital gatherings, only to be met with silence. As a young person who has faced these obstacles but remains passionate about contributing to global causes, I’ve decided to spearhead a fundraising initiative. 

Our goal with this fundraising is to raise at least $10,000 to support at least 10 African youth delegates (myself included) to attend COP 29 in Azerbaijan. This will cover flights and accommodation for us to be present, speak out, and advocate for the future we will inherit.

I’m calling on all of you who understand these struggles to support this initiative, either by making a pledge or sharing this message with your networks. Let’s come together and ensure that African youth have the opportunity to be heard, especially when our future is on the line.