AYGCC 2022: The Inaugural Conference

Making History: First Youth Conference on Gender and Climate in Ghana

The African Youth Gender and Climate Conference (AYGCC), formerly known as the Anijie Global Gender and Climate Conference, made history on November 26, 2022, as Ghana’s first youth conference focusing on the intersection of gender and climate change. Hosted at the Ghana Innovation Hub, this ground-breaking event set the foundation for what would become one of Africa’s most impactful youth-led climate initiatives.

Conference Theme

Achieving Climate Goals via Gender and Social Equity: The Role of the Youth in Ghana

Key Highlights

Keynote Address

Mr. Stephen Kansuk Esquire

Head of Environment and Climate Change, UNDP Ghana

  • Presented Ghana's strategic climate action plans
  • Outlined youth engagement opportunities in national climate initiatives
  • Emphasized the importance of gender-responsive climate solutions

Expert Insights

Ms. Franklina Shalom 

More Heads Organisation

  • Highlighted critical aspects of gender-responsive climate action
  • Shared practical approaches to inclusive climate solutions

Distinguished Panel Discussion

Moderated by Ms. Darkoa Bessa-Simons, featuring:

  • Grace Efua Amposah, CAMFED Ghana
  • Nii Noi Omaboe, Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO)
  • Ruth Abunaw Besong, Mandela Washington Fellow
  • Prince Agbata, Founder & CEO, Coliba Waste Management Service LTD

Notable Attendees

  • Dr. Vanessa Mensah-Kabu
  • Mrs. Catherine Morton
  • Representatives from:
  • British High Commission
  • United Nations
  • Government Agencies
  • Civil Society Organizations
  • Youth Activist Groups
  • Various NGOs

Conference Impact

Delegate Feedback

Delegate Feedback

Participants highlighted the conference's:

  • Interactive and engaging format
  • Educational value
  • Real-world solution focus
  • Call to action approach
  • Practical insights into gender and climate challenges

Key Outcomes

  • Established Ghana's first youth-led platform for gender and climate discourse
  • Created networks between youth leaders and climate experts
  • Developed action plans for community-level climate initiatives
  • Strengthened partnerships between organizations and stakeholders

Historical Significance

The 2022 conference marked a pivotal moment in Ghana’s climate action journey by:

  • Recognizing the gendered impact of climate change
  • Emphasizing youth leadership in climate solutions
  • Creating a blueprint for future AYGCC events
  • Establishing a model for youth engagement in climate policy

Legacy

This inaugural conference laid the groundwork for AYGCC’s evolution into a continental platform for youth-led climate action. It demonstrated Anijie Global Foundation’s commitment to:

  • Empowering women and youth through education
  • Promoting sustainable development
  • Advancing UN SDGs Agenda 2030
  • Supporting African Union Agenda 2063

Moving Forward

The success of AYGCC 2022 established a strong foundation for:

  • Annual conference continuation
  • Expanded regional participation
  • Enhanced focus on implementation
  • Strengthened stakeholder partnerships

Resources

  • Conference Report
  • Presentation Materials
  • Action Plans
  • Partnership Opportunities

The 2022 conference wasn't just an event - it was the beginning of a movement led by African youth to create climate solutions that work for everyone.

View Full Conference Report

Join us at AYGCC 2024 as we build on this legacy of youth leadership in climate action.

Register for AYGCC 2024

Connect with us:

Linkedin-in X-twitter Instagram Facebook