In Hargeisa, Somaliland, a region grappling with the harsh realities of climate change, GeedBeer has taken a crucial step in empowering the next generation of climate leaders. Supported by Oxfam Novib and the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ), GeedBeer recently concluded a two-day climate action training for 30 young leaders. This initiative aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate effectively for climate action within their communities.
Somaliland faces severe environmental challenges, including recurring droughts, water scarcity, and land degradation. These issues exacerbate the vulnerability of local communities and underscore the urgent need for robust climate action. Against this backdrop, the training program focused on educating participants about climate science, the impacts of climate change, and strategic activism to drive community-level change.
A key aspect of the training was to instill a deep understanding of climate science and its local implications. Participants learned how climate change affects their environment and livelihoods, providing a solid foundation for their advocacy efforts. Alongside theoretical knowledge, practical sessions on advocacy and activism equipped them with tools to effectively campaign for sustainable practices and policies.
“The training was an eye-opener,” said one of the participants, Ayaan Ismail. “Understanding the science behind climate change and learning how to advocate for our communities has given me the confidence to lead initiatives and drive real change.”
One of AACJ’s core objectives is mobilizing movements to advance climate justice. This training in Hargeisa is a testament to that commitment. By empowering youth with the necessary tools and knowledge, the program aims to create a ripple effect of climate action and awareness throughout Somaliland.
The newly trained youth leaders are anticipated to draft advocacy papers that highlight local climate issues and propose actionable solutions. They will mobilize other youth in their communities, creating a network of informed and proactive climate advocates. Additionally, these leaders will organize community awareness campaigns and workshops to disseminate the knowledge and skills they have acquired. Their collective efforts aim to influence local and national policies, ensuring that the voices of Somaliland’s youth are heard in the broader climate justice movement.
This initiative exemplifies AACJ’s mission to mobilize movements for climate justice, tying into the broader African context where the discourse on loss and damage is critical. Africa, one of the most vulnerable continents to climate change, faces significant impacts despite contributing minimally to global emissions. The training in Hargeisa is part of a larger effort to prepare young Africans to engage in international discussions, including those at COP29, where loss and damage will be a central topic.