From the Activista Network’s Meeting with the World Bank Liberia
A coalition of over 30 youth organizations, networks and movements, operating under the umbrella of the “Activista Network” and in collaboration with Actionaid Liberia on Climate Justice, convened for an introductory meeting with Madam Georgian A. Wallen, the Country Manager of the World Bank Liberia. The objective of the meeting was to discuss strategies for advancing climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Taking place on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at the conference room of the World Bank Liberia’s country office in Congo Town, the gathering saw the participation of Activista Network in Liberia including Climate Justice Network leaders from various youth platforms.
During the meeting, the Activists Consortium leaders emphasized the urgent need to prioritize investments in women, youth, agroecology, renewable energy, waste management and resilient infrastructure to effectively tackle climate change in their respective communities. They highlighted the absence of a dedicated fund for youth involvement in addressing climate issues, emphasizing the importance of filling this gap to empower young leaders and drive impactful initiatives in Liberia.
The Youth Activists also called for the establishment of a Youth Advisory Board to advise the World Bank in Liberia on relevant youth-led climate adaptation actions from the grassroots level.
Moreover, the Youth leaders acknowledged the challenges faced in current initiatives and cited specific examples of communities struggling with climate impacts, underscoring the necessity of targeted investments and innovative solutions. They pledged to establish youth representation once the National Youth Fund on Climate Change is established, ensuring that competitive climate projects are vetted effectively and resources are allocated efficiently.
Expressing gratitude for the government’s prioritization of agriculture under the Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism (ARREST) agenda, the Youth Climate Activists highlighted the pivotal role of agriculture in the country’s development. However, they noted gaps in current strategies, such as limited access to sustainable farming practices and resources for smaller farmers. They highlighted the need for targeted investments in agroecology among smaller farmers, providing examples of successful agroecology projects that have benefited both the populace and the climate.
In addressing the need for education on climate justice policies, Norwu K. Harris-Youth Coordinator and Climate Justice Focal Person at ActionAid Liberia, emphasized the importance of integrating such education into high school and university curricula. She highlighted the challenges in incorporating climate justice education and proposed collaborative efforts with educational institutions to develop tailored curricula and training programs. By addressing this gap, they aim to raise awareness and empower future generations to become climate change champions.
In response to their requests, Madam Georgian A. Wallen, the World Bank Country Manager, assured the group of her commitment to collaborating with them to achieve their objectives. She pledged to engage in consultations with relevant World Bank authorities to seek approval and provide timely feedback, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in shaping climate policies and projects.
The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and determination among the participants to work together towards a sustainable future, where climate justice is prioritized and realized. By identifying gaps, proposing solutions, and fostering collaboration, the coalition aims to drive meaningful change and build a more resilient and sustainable society.
Activista Network Liberia is a member of Activista International, which is ActionAid International’s global youth network, comprising over 250 ActionAid partners and thousands of volunteers across more than 30 countries. It serves as a global youth movement with a vision of a world free from poverty and injustice, where every individual enjoys their right to a dignified life. The mission of Activista is to collaborate with marginalized communities to eliminate poverty, injustice, and inequality. As a platform, Activista empowers young people from diverse backgrounds to connect, exchange knowledge, experiences, and ideas, and act.
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