Project Showcase: African Climate Youth Assembly (AYCA)
Red Oak Communications is proud to have been a part of the impactful African Climate Youth Assembly (AYCA), held from 1st to 3rd September 2023 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, Kenya.
Event Overview:
AYCA, with the theme “African-led Solutions to Global Challenges,” aimed to address the critical need for the inclusion and participation of Africa’s youth (aged 15-35) in building a sustainable and resilient future. With over 400 million young people in Africa, the assembly sought to unite and amplify their voices, providing a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and showcasing innovative solutions in the global fight against climate change.
Objectives and Outcomes:
AYCA had clear objectives to achieve during this dynamic and inclusive conference:
1. Amplifying Youth Voices:
– AYCA worked towards consolidating youth voices through the Nairobi Youth Declaration, feeding into the AU Heads of State Nairobi Declaration and influencing international forums such as the UN General Assembly and COP 28.
2. Fostering Connections and Collaborations:
– The assembly facilitated engagement and collaboration among young change-makers, connecting them with AU heads of states, policy makers, business leaders, and scientists before, during, and after key events like ACS, UN General Assembly, and COP 28.
3. Showcasing Youth-Led Initiatives:
– AYCA provided a platform to highlight and amplify the actions of young people across the continent in addressing climate change. This served as a knowledge-sharing hub, promoting investments and partnerships within the youth community.
4. Addressing Continental Priority Issues:
– The assembly facilitated discussions on pressing continental concerns, including Climate Adaptation and Resilience, Loss and Damage, and Just Energy Transition. These discussions contributed to the overarching Green Growth Agenda and Climate Financing.
5. Empowering Youth:
– AYCA took proactive steps to lobby for the systematic embedment of an Africa Youth Climate Assembly, including the formation of a special AU Young Climate Envoy and Assembly, as well as the establishment of Youth climate councils in African national and local governments to enhance youth representation. Red Oak Communications played a crucial role in shaping the narrative, communicating the vision of AYCA, and ensuring that the voices of Africa’s youth were heard on a global stage, influencing critical climate decision-making frameworks.
