Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno has hailed the role of children and youth in shaping climate action, describing their energy as “contagious” and their message “undeniable.”
“It is now our duty, as leaders today, to translate your vision into tangible action,” Dr. Ng’eno said during the African Children Climate Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, an event presided over by Kenya’s First Lady, H.E. Mama Rachel Ruto.
President Ruto’s Call Reinforced
The PS referenced President William Ruto’s remarks at the inaugural Africa Climate Summit in 2023, that young people must not be viewed as passive victims of climate change, but as active participants in designing solutions.
Dr. Ng’eno noted that the devastating impacts of climate change—floods, droughts, food insecurity—are already disrupting education, endangering health, and threatening safety. “Tragically, it is children and women who bear the heaviest burden,” he said.
Creativity and Justice in Action
Despite this vulnerability, the PS highlighted the power of children’s creativity and courage in driving change. “You have reminded us that protecting our environment is not merely a technical issue; it is the deepest form of justice. It is our sacred, intergenerational duty,” he stated. He emphasized that solutions to the climate crisis lie in the bold ideas, art, and activism of young people demanding climate justice across the continent.
Youth in Kenya’s Climate Policy
Dr. Ng’eno affirmed that Kenya is already taking steps to mainstream youth voices in climate governance. The country’s third National Climate Change Action Plan (2023–2027) and its new Nationally Determined Contribution for 2031–2025 include, for the first time, a strategic priority dedicated to youth and children.“We want policies and programmes to be shaped not just for young people, but with them,” he added.
Celebrating Young Environmental Champions
The PS further highlighted the First Lady’s Mazingira Awards (FLAMA) as a shining example of how children’s innovations in environmental stewardship are being celebrated at national and continental levels.
Towards ACS-2
The summit brought together young climate champions from more than 50 countries. Their declaration will be presented at the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS-2), set for September 8–10, 2025, at the Addis International Convention Centre in Ethiopia.
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