On November 23, 2024, Green Totos Uganda participated in the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) held at the British Council in Kampala, Uganda. This event brought together young leaders and activists from various sectors to discuss and advocate for climate action and policies that directly affect their communities. The conference underscored the vital role that youth play in shaping climate policies and highlighted their capacity to influence decision-making processes at both local and international levels.
Key Highlights of LCOY 2024
One of the most significant outcomes of LCOY 2024 was the adoption of a comprehensive youth statement. This statement encapsulated the collective demands and aspirations of young people regarding climate action and was set to be presented at COP 29, the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference. The youth statement emphasized several critical areas:
- Climate Justice: The statement called for equitable solutions that address the disproportionate impacts of climate change on marginalized communities, particularly in developing countries like Uganda.
- Sustainable Development: Participants advocated for policies that integrate sustainable practices into national development plans, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of environmental degradation.
- Youth Engagement: The importance of involving youth in policy-making processes was a recurring theme. The conference participants urged governments to create platforms where young voices can be heard and considered in climate-related decisions.
- Education and Awareness: There was a strong emphasis on enhancing climate education among youth to empower them with knowledge and skills necessary for effective advocacy and action.
- Innovative Solutions: Young innovators were encouraged to develop creative solutions to combat climate change, leveraging technology and local knowledge.
Green Totos Uganda played an instrumental role during LCOY by facilitating discussions, sharing insights from their community projects, and highlighting successful youth-led initiatives aimed at combating climate change. Their participation not only amplified local voices but also showcased practical examples of how youth can lead impactful environmental actions.
The organization emphasized collaboration with other stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and private sector players, to foster an inclusive approach towards achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). They also stressed the need for ongoing dialogue between youth groups and policymakers to ensure that the concerns raised during LCOY are addressed in future legislative frameworks
The Local Conference of Youth 2024 served as a pivotal platform for young Ugandans to express their commitment to tackling climate change while advocating for their rights as active participants in shaping a sustainable future. The adoption of the youth statement marks a significant step towards ensuring that their voices are represented at COP 29 and beyond.
