CYCLES-LIBERIA urges urgent action to combat climate change’s adverse effects on smallholder farmers in Liberia. The organization emphasizes the unpredictability of weather patterns affecting food security and calls for increased youth engagement in climate policy. Notable discussions at the Youth Post-COP29 Conference addressed the need for financing climate initiatives and translating international commitments into local actions.
CYCLES-LIBERIA, a prominent grassroots environmental advocacy organization in Liberia, has called for urgent action to address the detrimental effects of climate change on smallholder farmers in rural communities. The organization emphasizes that these farmers can no longer depend on traditional weather patterns, which leads to unpredictable farming conditions and increased threats to food security across the nation.
Beyan E. Harris, Executive Director of CYCLES-LIBERIA, highlighted the severe challenges faced by farmers who struggle with inconsistent seasonal changes. He urged that both mitigation and adaptation strategies are essential to combat the adverse effects of climate change. Furthermore, he advocated for enhanced youth involvement in climate policymaking as well as concrete government action on climate issues.
During the recent Youth Post-COP29 Conference, Mr. Harris emphasized the vital role of young people in implementing solutions derived from global climate discussions. He remarked on the necessity for practical outcomes from international conferences such as COP29, noting the privileges associated with attending these events and the struggle many young Liberians face in participating.
Abraham E. Tumbay from UNDP discussed the significance of Liberia’s Nationally Determined Contribution and the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Change. He stressed the need for all countries to contribute to climate stability and highlighted the importance of financing climate initiatives, particularly in least-developed nations like Liberia. Investments in renewable energy sources, such as solar power, are deemed crucial to mitigate emissions and secure a sustainable future.
Both speakers underscored the necessity for robust government action and continuous youth engagement in climate policy dialogues. The Youth Post COP29 Dialogue gathered over 50 participants from marginalized groups, universities, and civil society to share insights from COP29 and discuss ways to translate international commitments into local actions.
This collaborative event provided valuable perspectives on how young Liberians can enhance their participation in climate discourse, contributing to national initiatives. The attendees left with a comprehensive understanding of COP29’s impact, amid various commitments from the Global North to support climate actions in the Global South.
Furthermore, notable grassroots organizations and educational institutions were involved in the dialogue, indicating a broader coalition eager to address environmental challenges in Liberia.
CYCLES-LIBERIA’s call for action highlights the urgent need to address the effects of climate change on smallholder farmers in Liberia. With a focus on youth participation and government accountability, the organization emphasizes the necessity for both mitigation and adaptation strategies. The recent Youth Post-COP29 Conference served as a platform for sharing vital insights and developing actionable solutions to climate challenges at both local and national levels, reinforcing the importance of collaborative approaches in achieving sustainability.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
