Reflections on the Africa Climate Summit 2023 and the Importance of Climate Education

I had the privilege of participating in the Africa Climate Summit (ACS) 2023 held in Nairobi, Kenya, and it proved to be an incredibly inspiring event. This summit served as a remarkable platform for governments, leaders, businesses, practitioners, youth, and children hailing from various corners of Africa to converge and engage in discussions about, and commitment to, climate action.

The president of Kenya, H.E. William Ruto's hosting of ACS 2023 was a strong signal of his commitment to climate action. He spoke at the summit about the importance of climate action for Africa, and he outlined a number of steps that his government is taking to address climate change.

The Nairobi Declaration

Among the summit's most significant achievements was the creation of the Nairobi Declaration. The Nairobi Declaration was a commitment from African leaders to take action on climate change. The Nairobi Declaration was adopted by African heads of state and government. However, the summit was also attended by a wide range of other stakeholders, including global leaders, intergovernmental organizations, regional economic communities, UN agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, indigenous peoples, local communities, farmer organizations, children, youth, women, and academia.

This essential document encapsulates a range of pivotal pledges made by African leaders.

These commitments include:

1. Accelerating the transition towards a clean energy economy.
2. Enhancing resilience to climate change impacts.
3. Mobilizing the requisite finances and resources for climate action.

The Nairobi Declaration marks a substantial stride in Africa's collective response to the climate crisis. It unequivocally demonstrates that African leaders are resolute in their commitment to taking concrete steps to safeguard their people and the environment.

However, much work remains to be done in order to implement the commitments outlined in the declaration.

Here are some of the things that need to happen next:

• African governments need to develop and implement policies that support the transition to a clean energy economy and build resilience to climate change impacts.
• Businesses need to invest in green technologies and sustainable practices.
• Civil society organizations need to continue to advocate for climate action and support vulnerable communities.
• Individuals need to make changes in their own lives to reduce their carbon footprint and live more sustainably.

The Nairobi Declaration is a call to action for all Africans.

The Question

Nevertheless, as the summit approached its conclusion, I found myself contemplating a crucial question: Do ordinary citizens in Africa, particularly in Kenya, comprehend the urgency of climate action? Do they grasp the essence of the summit's discussions and their personal implications? Are they cognizant of the fact that climate change concerns them, even amidst challenging economic circumstances? Do they recognize their pivotal role in finding solutions?

These inquiries bear tremendous significance because effective climate action necessitates the active involvement of all individuals. Each one of us plays a vital part in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and fortifying our defenses against the impacts of climate change.

It was this very contemplation that motivated me to recently author a children's book titled "Champions of the Earth: An Epic Adventure in Climate Discovery and Action." This book endeavors to impart knowledge about climate change to children in an enjoyable and easily understandable manner. It encapsulates the essence of why we, at Ikosafi Africa, remain steadfast in our commitment to providing climate education that inspires action at whatever level.

I firmly believe that climate education is an imperative for everyone, regardless of age, income, or educational background. We must strive to equip everyone with an understanding of what climate change entails, why it poses a grave challenge, and how each individual can contribute to the solution.

While climate change may be a complex issue, it is paramount to recognize that at its core, it is a human issue. It is about safeguarding our people and preserving our planet for the prosperity of future generations.