Baliqees' Reflections from the ACS2: Youth Leadership and Action for Africa’s Future.

On the 8-10th of September, 2025, I had the honor of representing the African Youth Initiative on Climate Change (AYICC) at the Second African Climate Summit (ACS 2025) in Ethiopia as Deputy Executive Chair and Project Coordinator. This great opportunity was made possible through the support of the Africa Youth Partnership on Climate Action implemented by YOTA, which aims to empower youth to be active participants in climate justice. Over three days of back-to-back sessions, discussions, and bilateral meetings, I engaged with incredible young leaders, organizations, and partners, all united by a common goal: driving climate action across Africa.

The dedication of youth volunteers throughout the summit- ensuring everyone felt comfortable and supported -made our entire trip to Ethiopia even more meaningful. It showed the zeal that we continue to carry as young people as we protect our planet from climate crisis.

Building Momentum for Youth Engagement
The summit kicked off with registration and the opening ceremony, where the energy and determination of African leaders, youth, and stakeholders were palpable. From the very start, it was clear that Africa is gearing up to take a bold stance in addressing climate change and youth are at the heart of this movement.

Baliqees (third from the left) and other panelists at CIFF’s session.

Day 2: Elevating Youth Voices
One of my most impactful moments was participating in a session hosted by the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) on Youth Leadership in Climate Action: From Grassroots to Global Stage. I shared my journey in the climate space, emphasizing that youth must be actively involved in decision-making processes, not only when decisions are already made.

We discussed how young people can drive change from their communities, and I showcased AYICC’s work in empowering youth through innovation, entrepreneurship, and community-led climate projects. It was inspiring to share this stage with other young climate leaders, including Joshua Amponsem from the Youth Climate Justice Fund, Richard Matey (Executive Director of GAYO), Nisreen Elsaim (Executive Director of YALAP), Mercele Oliveira (COP30 Presidency Youth Climate Champion), and Elizabeth Watuti ( Founder of GGI).

Baliqees (second from the left) in a panel discussion at the Ocean Pavilion.

Later, at the Ocean Pavilion, we explored the importance of youth engagement in ocean advocacy and climate activism moderated by Shamim Nyanda. One key takeaway: we don not need to live near the ocean to care about it, because its health impacts us all. Panelists from SOE shared how they are building a network of over 2,000 youth ocean activists across Africa, a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we organize and act collectively. I made an intervention while speaking on the panel on the importance of strengthening advocacy and
awareness on the ocean and the opportunities that exist for young Africans.

Advocating for Climate-Smart Agriculture
In another session hosted by the African Union, we discussed scaling climate-smart agriculture for sustainable food systems. Speaking as co-founder of Green Republic Farms, I highlighted the challenges smallholder farmers face in accessing new technologies, greenhouses, solar-powered systems, and AI tools. While innovation is key, affordability and accessibility are crucial if these tools are to make a meaningful difference in the lives of African farmers, women, and youth in agribusiness.

Baliqees (first from left) in the AU’s panel discussion.

Day 3: From Talk to Action
The final day included a bilateral meeting with the UN Assistant Secretary-General on Climate Change, where young leaders, including myself, emphasized the importance of moving from discussion to action. We explored how youth voices can translate into measurable outcomes, ensuring accountability and meaningful progress on climate commitments.

Key Takeaways
● Youth must be included in every stage of climate action, from local initiatives to global policies.
● Climate technologies need to be accessible and affordable to benefit communities on the ground.
● Ocean and environmental advocacy are global responsibilities, not limited by geography.
● Advocate for establishing a dedicated Children and Youth Pavilion at climate summits and climate weeks, similar to the one at COPs, of which AYICC has been an active member since its launch at COP27
● Africa is preparing for COP32, and youth must be ready to take their seat at the table.

Baliqees in a group picture at the bilateral meeting with the UN Assistant Secretary-General.

Looking Ahead
The African Climate Summit reinforced the vital role of youth in shaping Africa’s climate future. My participation allowed me to amplify the Africa Youth Patnership on Climate Action and AYICC’s initiatives, advocate for farmers and women, and connect with leaders who share our vision of sustainable, community-driven solutions.

As we move forward, I am committed to translating these experiences into actionable projects, partnerships, and youth-led innovations, ensuring that the voices of young Africans are not only heard but are central to Africa’s climate solutions.