Africa continues to bear the brunt of the global climate crisis despite contributing little to its cause. According to the IPCC 2022 report, the continent faces the most severe consequences of the climate crisis. The vulnerability of our communities and nations worsens as the crisis persists, with predictions that by 2030, up to 118 million people in Africa could be exposed to extreme weather events like droughts, floods, and heatwaves. This trend underscores how important prioritising the continent’s resilience effort is of utmost priority both the local and global landscapes. However, there is a very unique thing that positions the continent as one with great potential- it’s Africa’s youthful population. The continent, while often lacking the necessary research infrastructure and human capital to drive climate solutions through research, is home to the youngest population in the world. With over 400 million young people aged 15 to 35 years (African Union, 2021), Africa’s youth represent a powerful force for change. The African Union’s agenda for 2063 emphasises the need to leverage this demographic through policies and programs that will drive youth development and empowerment. If we can tap into the potential of our young people, we can translate these demographics into increased opportunities for climate solutions tailored to the continent’s needs.

Young researchers are at the heart of the continent’s transformative potential. The reason is that the youth are better positioned to drive solutions that capture the reality of the African culture, local ecosystems, and the needs of indigenous communities. A study published in the Nature Journal by Anna Coussens in 2021, highlights the structural challenges African researchers face, such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient leadership and capacity, weak governance, and lack of support and mentorship. These barriers have impeded Africa’s ability to generate climate solutions that are grounded in the reality of its communities. It is now clear that building the capacity of young African researchers is important to promoting responsive and innovative climate solutions that are culturally relevant and locally driven.

As the climate crisis persists, it is now apparent that there is a need to build the capacity of young African researchers to promote responsive and innovative solutions. The International Science Council 2023, recommended that strengthening capacity building initiatives will address some of the challenges that are faced by researchers in the global south. Capacity building is essential in equipping young researchers with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to become key players in the fight against climate change to drive impactful solutions both regionally and globally.

At the Eco Science Generation Initiative, the work we are doing through the Climate Research Workshop proves that with the right contextualised support, young people across Africa are eager to engage in research that can solve the climate challenges facing their communities. This initiative provides access to global research experts, resources, and mentorship for young climate leaders to conduct independent research while improving their leadership and collaboration skills. Through the initiative, we enhanced the leadership of young people to advance climate action in their communities. Conclusively, in order to advance Africa’s economic development and reduce its vulnerability to climate change, we must prioritise building the capacity of young researchers so that they can drive climate solutions that are rooted in their reality to enhance sustainable development. Africa’s youth are its greatest asset, and with the right support, they have the potential to lead the charge in solving one of the most pressing issues of our time.