Background

African economies are at the crossroads of immense challenges and opportunities as they confront climate change, environmental degradation, and the pressing need for sustainable development. Green climate technology holds the potential to strengthen Africa’s resilience against climate threats while enabling job creation and economic growth through sustainable industries. With its abundant natural resources, coupled with a rapidly growing and youthful population—over 60% of whom are under 25—the continent has a unique potential to leverage the youth to become a leader in green technology innovation.

While a subset of young Africans is already making strides as innovators within the green technology landscape, many remain disconnected from potential opportunities. This disconnection is primarily due to limited sector awareness and skill sets, restricted access to essential resources, and a lack of engagement initiatives. To harness the full potential of the youth in driving the green technology agenda, it is imperative to implement strategies that simultaneously promote knowledge dissemination, skill development, and resource accessibility. How do we effectively achieve this?

The Event

To this end, APRI and the Strategic Youth Network For Development (SYND) are convening a side event at COP29 in Baku to discuss the challenges above and share insights on increasing youth interest and participation in green technology development. The event format is a panel discussion of young experts.

The Speakers

Priscilla Adogo Ahiada
Panelist

Priscilla Adogo Ahiada is the Head of the Energy Programme at the Strategic Youth Network For Development (SYND).

Nathan Ngetich Kiplangat
Panelist

Nathan Ngetich Kiplangat is the CEO of the SMACHS Foundation

Dolphine Magero
Panelist

Dolphine Magero is the CEO of the Green Youth Climate Fund Initiative.

Olumide Idowu
Panelist

Olumide Idowu is the CEO of ICCDI Africa.

Moderation

Dr. Serwah Prempeh
Moderator

Dr. Serwah Prempeh is a Senior Fellow for the Economy & Society program at the Africa Policy Research Institute.