Climate Action Africa Blog
September 2024
Through an innovative collaboration between Future at Play and the Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO), the Climate Action Africa (CAA) initiative recently completed a 3-week Youth Climate Leadership Training of Trainers in Northern Ghana. This program, funded by the Government of Canada empowered 75 youth from Kandiga, Bongo, and Sirigu to take charge of their communities’ climate challenges while addressing key gender issues like “period poverty”. Learn more about the initiative here.
This is their story inspired by testimonials published on social media.
Empowering the Next Generation of Climate Leaders
Khadijah Azumah Braimah, Project Coordinator at GAYO, emphasized the excitement surrounding the completion of the program: “We are thrilled to have trained these future leaders in climate action and gender equality. This is just the beginning for many of them.”
Throughout the training, led by facilitators such as Khadijah and Benedict Fosu Arthur, the participants engaged in sessions on menstrual hygiene, climate adaptation, and water scarcity. A standout session focused on addressing “period poverty”, an often-overlooked issue that can hinder young girls’ educational and leadership opportunities. By educating girls about menstrual health, the program ensures that they are empowered not only to manage their own health but also to lead others in their communities.
The program culminated in a grand durbar held at the Rock Garden Eco-Resort in Bolgatanga, where participants showcased what they had learned, and stakeholders from across the region gathered to discuss the future of climate leadership in Northern Ghana. To learn more about the 3 weeks of training check out this short article – Empowering the Next Generation of Climate Leaders in the Upper East Region of Ghana: A Journey of Transformation, by Benedict Fosu Arthur.
Workshop Highlights: Practical Solutions for Real-World Problems
One of the most impactful aspects of the training, led by Eliza Hogan of Future at Play, was a hands-on workshop teaching participants how to create simple DIY water filters from everyday materials like plastic bottles, cotton, sand, and gravel. In regions facing water scarcity and contamination, these filters are life-changing, offering an accessible solution to ensure safe drinking water for rural communities.
“Clean water is a fundamental human right,” said Eliza. “Equipping young leaders with practical skills like this not only addresses immediate needs but also empowers them to develop community-driven solutions to water challenges.”
Spotlighting Leaders: Voices from the Training
The youth climate training highlighted many incredible young leaders, including Adongo Comfort, a passionate climate activist with a strong focus on water adaptation and gender equality. Comfort, equipped with specialized leadership training from Climate Development Knowledge and Networking (CDKN), has emerged as a powerful advocate for social change, climate action, and gender rights in her community.
Another remarkable young leader, Patience Anamolga, exemplifies dedication to community service. A student at Regentropfen University College, Patience advocates for sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) and campaigns against child marriage. Through her leadership, she has inspired many in her region to act on crucial issues like safe menstruation and gender equality.
Looking Forward: A Lasting Impact
This training, a key part of the Strengthening Youth Climate Leadership in Water Adaptation and Period Initiative, is just the beginning for these young leaders. GAYO will continue to mentor participants as they implement the skills and knowledge they’ve gained in their communities.
As we reflect on the success of this initiative, we are reminded of the power of youth-led action in driving meaningful change. These young leaders are not just participants in a training program—they are the future of climate leadership in Ghana and beyond.
Closing Thoughts
This training would not have been possible without the generous support of the Government of Canada’s Climate Action Africa initiative, and our incredible partners—Alinea International, Econoler, WSP in Canada, and Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO).
Together, we’re not just preparing young people for leadership—we’re shaping a more equitable, sustainable future, driven by youth leadership in climate action and gender equality. Let’s continue to push boundaries and create lasting impact, one community at a time.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this journey. The future is in good hands!
