At JAVA COFFEE in Mogadishu, another impactful Daango iyo Deegaan event delved into “SDG 13 and Somalia: Time for Youth to Take the Wheel.” This gathering focused on Sustainable Development Goal 13, highlighting the need for urgent climate action and the protection of life on Earth. Abdullahi Ahmed Ali ‘Najib,’ a noted young climate expert and board member of Action for Environment, provided a comprehensive overview of this critical goal. He motivated the youth attendees to actively participate in climate action initiatives and discussed the overarching objectives of the Paris Agreement, emphasizing the role of the youth in achieving these global targets.
During the event, engaging discussions allowed participants to hear from various stakeholders, including local leaders, environmental activists, and entrepreneurs. These discussions underscored the unique challenges that Somalia faces regarding climate change, such as droughts, floods, and food security issues, while also highlighting innovative solutions that young people can implement in their communities. The stories shared by the participants served as a source of inspiration, showing how youth creativity and resilience can lead to transformative change. Attendees left the session with concrete ideas and strategies to tackle climate-related challenges in their own neighborhoods.
In addition to the discussions, the event featured a call to action encouraging youth to form grassroots coalitions focused on SDG 13. Abdullahi Ahmed Ali urged the attendees to use social media platforms not only to raise awareness but also to mobilize support for local climate initiatives. By fostering an environment where youth can collaborate and share their experiences, the Daango iyo Deegaan event aimed to lay the foundation for a robust network of young climate advocates committed to driving sustainable practices across Somalia. This collective approach is essential to ensuring that youth voices are front and center in the fight against climate change, ultimately leading to a brighter, more resilient future for the nation.
