Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) says the voice of women, youth and children in climate action must be elevated.
CEJ Youth and Children Programme Coordinator, Dalitso Mvula, stated that CEJ has since partnered with youth-led group World Changers Zambia to host school debates beginning with Lusaka’s Munali Secondary School under the She Rise Campaign.
She explained that the initiative is part of the Resilient Woman for Climate Action and Environmental Justice Project supported by the Carter Centre Foundation in Lufwanyama District, Copperbelt Province.
Mvula emphasised that climate change is not just a scientific phenomenon but a lived reality affecting communities.
She pointed out that children are walking long distances to fetch water, missing school due to floods, and families are being displaced from their homes.
At the same function, World Changers Zambia Executive Director Felix Neba declared that his organisation speaks for a movement that believes in justice and equity.
He stressed that climate change is a reality affecting everyone and must be addressed urgently, particularly by the youth who will lead efforts in the next decade.
Neba explained that the debates will focus on issues that affect both young and old, including climate change, mental health, and leadership.
He observed that many young people are struggling with depression and anxiety, and emphasised the importance of engaging parents and mentors to provide support.
Neba affirmed that the discussions would help change mindsets and inspire a new perspective on climate and the environment.
Earlier, University of Zambia Students’ Union (UNZASU) Vice President Jemimah Mwaba emphasised that leadership is not defined by titles or positions but by personal character.
She explained that true leadership begins with self-awareness, noting that one cannot lead others without first understanding oneself.
Mwaba encouraged young people to plan for their future and to envision the goals they want to achieve, stressing that they are not too young to dream or prepare.
She expressed confidence that she will one day become President of the Republic of Zambia, even as the country’s first female president.
Mwaba urged students to open their minds, write down their vision, and reflect on who they want to become tomorrow.