East Africa Launches Youth-Led Climate Coalition

A new coalition is harnessing the power of young people to fight climate change in one of the world's most vulnerable regions.

The IGAD Regional Youth Coalition on Climate and Climate-Resilient Agri-Food Systems launched in Nairobi this week, officially placing youth at the heart of climate policy across Eastern Africa. The initiative brings together young innovators, institutions, and partners across a region where over 60% of the population is under 25.

"This is our opportunity to bring forth the energy, hope and determination of young people to push systems and drive meaningful change," said Kenya's Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs Fikirini Jacobs at the launch. She emphasized that Africa's youthful population gives the continent a unique advantage in driving climate solutions.

The timing couldn't be more critical. Nearly 70% of the IGAD region is arid or semi-arid land, and climate shocks have displaced over 40 million people in recent years. Agriculture, which remains the backbone of regional economies, depends almost entirely on increasingly unpredictable rainfall.

IGAD Youth Envoy Sam Ogwal explained that the coalition transforms scattered youth efforts into a structured regional force. The platform will mobilize young people, strengthen access to climate services, promote climate-resilient farming, support green entrepreneurship, and amplify youth voices in global climate discussions.

Young people across the region are already proving themselves as powerful agents of change. Tens of thousands are supporting farming communities with knowledge, advisory services, and market connections. They're adopting technology faster and innovating solutions that work for local conditions.

The Ripple Effect

The coalition creates something bigger than individual projects. It connects grassroots initiatives across borders, turning local innovations into regional impact.

Dr. Abdi Fidar from the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre stressed the urgent need for improved climate prediction and technology adoption. "To be relevant, you must not only use technology but innovate with it," he told young attendees.

Ethiopian Youth Council President Fuad Gena captured the spirit of the moment. "We are not just beneficiaries. We are innovators and frontline responders." His words reflect a generation refusing to wait on the sidelines while climate change reshapes their future.

The coalition addresses real barriers young people face, including limited access to finance, land, and information. By coordinating efforts and creating a unified voice, it strengthens their ability to influence policy and access resources.

With climate impacts already hitting hardest in Eastern Africa, this generation is stepping up to build resilience where it matters most.