Accra, Ghana – Anijie Global Foundation, a renowned youth-led Non-Governmental Organization committed to cultivating leadership skills in women and youth, proudly announces the successful conclusion of the second edition of the African Youth Gender and Climate Conference (AYGCC). The conference, held under the theme “Empowering Women and Youth as Climate Leaders: Bridging the Gender Gap and Harnessing Technology for Sustainable Change,” took place on November 25 with virtual and in-person participation.
Describing climate change as the biggest challenge confronting humanity, Hilde Opoku, Program Manager at the United Nations Habitat in charge of the Smart SDG Cities iterated that, “The need for climate action is more urgent than ever before. More ambitions and actions need to be taken at all levels of society.”Naomi Birago Opoku-Agyemang, Senior Youth Coordinator for Gender, Health and Inclusion at the National Youth Authority (NYA) Ghana, in a keynote address, stressed on the need for continuous conversations addressing the gender gap in climate action.
“As we delve into discussions today, it is crucial to recognise the interconnectedness of our efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 4, 5, and 13 – Quality Education, Gender Equality, and Climate Action. These goals serve as our compass, guiding us towards a sustainable and equitable future,” she said. She insisted that the gender gap in climate action demands serious attention, and emphasised on government’s recognition of the power and potential of young Ghanaians in addressing climate change in the country. Dr. John Aggrey, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hired Consult, highlighted the crucial role women play in climate action and the need to empower them the more.
“We are all hard hit by the consequences of climate change, and women and youth, as the theme implies, offer unique gender perspectives and experiences that are immeasurable in shaping holistic and inclusive strategic policies,” he stated.