African Youth Advocate for Climate Justice in Bonn
Recently, youth delegates representing the HBCU Green Fund's Sustainable Africa Network took center stage at the United Nations Climate Conference, delivering an empowering message: climate justice must prioritize African and African-descended communities globally through actionable policies and investments.
Advancing the Climate Agenda
With the theme "One Struggle, One Future," the press conference highlights a pivotal moment in the #Road2Belem campaign initiated on Earth Day 2025. Youth from 16 countries across Africa and the global African Diaspora are uniting around a bold, collective vision anchored in self-determination and transnational solidarity.
Formulating the African Youth Climate Justice Statement
Central to their mission is the creation of an African Youth Climate Justice Statement. This statement will articulate their demands, which will be presented directly to key climate decision-makers at COP30 in Belém, Brazil.
Building Capacity and Engagement
The HBCU Green Fund is proactively organizing a series of virtual roundtables and strategy sessions leading up to COP30. In addition to these initiatives, members will participate in the Africa Climate Summit and the African Youth Climate Assembly, fostering broader participation and collective empowerment.
Key Delegates at the Conference
Prominent delegates at the Bonn conference from the HBCU Green Fund included:
- Hussein Kassim - Executive Director, Centre for Climate and Sustainability Empowerment
- Dr. Frances Roberts-Gregory - Board Member, HBCU Green Fund
- Saustine Lusanzu - Founder and Director, Earthcare Foundation
- Dr. Isatis Cintron-Rodriguez - Director, ACE Observatory
- Patience Nabukalu - Climate Activist, Fridays for Future Uganda
Core Demands for Climate Action
The group emphasizes several critical demands developed through extensive consultations:
- Climate reparations and debt cancellation related to climate change
- Direct access to climate finance for community-led solutions
- Recognition and inclusion of African descendant communities in UN climate processes
- Support for climate education and cultural exchange across the Diaspora
Youth Leadership for Transformative Solutions
Delegates expressed their commitment not just to be participants in discussions, but to lead the way in offering solutions. Lusanzu remarked, "The answers lie within our communities; we seek direct support rather than trickling aid." This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Roberts-Gregory, who insists that the youth deserve more than symbolic gestures.
Accountability in Climate Financing
As global frustration mounts regarding the effectiveness of climate finance, the youth leaders argue that without accountability, existing inequalities will persist. Dr. Cintron-Rodriguez asserts, "We must elevate the voices of those most affected to shape viable solutions for climate action." Their presence and advocacy in Bonn are part of a broader movement aimed at reshaping the climate narrative and redistributing power to frontline communities.
Commitment to Climate Justice
Delegates stressed the importance of delivering real solutions and justice, declaring, "Africa does not require charity, but rather climate justice.” Nabukalu emphasized a need for an authentic transition to sustainable practices and accountability from global leaders.
This initiative isn’t just a statement; it's a robust global movement. Kassim highlighted, "We are cultivating a legacy of climate justice that honors the resilience and struggles of our communities across the Diaspora." Their vision seeks to create a future built on justice and shared resilience.
Stay Involved
If you're interested in supporting this vital movement, you can follow HBCU Green Fund on social media or visit their website for more information.
About the HBCU Green Fund
Founded by climate leader Felicia Davis, the HBCU Green Fund has dedicated over a decade to championing climate action and environmental justice. Starting with a focus on HBCUs, their influence has expanded globally, empowering Black communities to pursue a sustainable future. Their Sustainable Africa Future Network, led by Cheikhou Thiome, works diligently on environmentally sustainable efforts across Africa and its Diaspora.
Contact: Edrea Davis, Jazzmyne PR
Phone/Text: 818.613.9521
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HBCU Green Fund?
The HBCU Green Fund supports climate action, sustainability, and environmental justice initiatives primarily at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
What is the purpose of the African Youth Climate Justice Statement?
This statement articulates the demands of African youth regarding climate justice to be presented at COP30.
What events are being organized leading up to COP30?
The HBCU Green Fund is organizing virtual roundtables, strategy sessions, and participation in significant climate summits.
Who are some key figures involved in this initiative?
Key figures include Hussein Kassim, Dr. Frances Roberts-Gregory, Saustine Lusanzu, Dr. Isatis Cintron-Rodriguez, and Patience Nabukalu.
How can one support the HBCU Green Fund's initiatives?
Support can be provided through social media engagement, donations, or active participation in their events and campaigns.
