Children Demand Amplified Voices Ahead of Africa Climate Summit 2025

By The Inspirer.

As the countdown begins for the Second Africa Climate Summit set for September 8-10, 2025, in Ethiopia, children from across Rwanda are calling on decision-makers and partners to ensure their voices are heard loud and clear throughout the summit.

During a recent national consultation event, 70 children from Kigali, Ruhango, Musanze, Burera, Nyamagabe, Mahama Refugee Camp, and the Emergency Transit Mechanisms in Gashora gathered to share how climate change is affecting their lives and propose solutions to environmental challenges.

Their input will play a vital role in shaping the official outcome statements that African Union member states and partners will adopt at the summit.

Joanne Musonda, Country Director of Save the Children Rwanda, emphasised the urgent need to listen to children. “As Save the Children, we believe that every child has a right to be heard, to be protected, and to live in a safe and healthy environment,” she said.

Adding that: “This is the moment to listen deeply, learn from children, and ensure their perspectives shape decisions during the summit and beyond.”

Christian Kayishema, Environment and Climate Change Education Officer at the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), underscored the power of children’s voices. “Your voices are the seed of the change.

At REMA, we are committed to supporting your education in climate science and sustainability, amplifying your voices in forums like the Africa Climate Summit, and ensuring your right to a clean and healthy environment is respected. Let’s make this consultation a milestone in Rwanda’s climate journey.” He said

The children themselves voiced firsthand experiences of climate challenges. Peter, 16, from Musanze District, shared how destroyed infrastructure, such as bridges, prevents children with physical disabilities from attending school, while children with albinism suffer during hot sunny seasons.

He urged government leaders to integrate climate education into school curricula and equip teachers with the skills to deliver it effectively.

Olla, 16 years old from Burera District, insisted on the importance of children’s participation in climate governance: “Children have to be part of climate discussions and decision-making processes. It’s our right to monitor the implementation of climate policies and ensure our voices are heard.”

This commitment to youth inclusion builds upon the first Africa Climate Summit held in Nairobi in 2023, where children’s participation was prioritised. Article 45 of the summit’s official outcome document called on member states to actively involve children in climate decision-making processes.

As the continent prepares to gather leaders, experts, and youth at the Ethiopia summit, these young voices are a vital reminder that Africa’s climate future depends on inclusive dialogue—putting children’s rights and solutions at the heart of sustainable development.