Zambian youths call for swift capitalization of climate loss, damage fund at COP29

Youth representatives in Zambia are urging the government to push for an expedited process in capitalising the Loss and Damage Fund at the upcoming COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, emphasizing the need for both immediate and long-term climate recovery funding for local communities.

Faith Chishimba, Co-Founder of Youth Ignite Zambia, expressed these concerns during a press briefing held at Global Platforms Zambia Head Office in Lusaka on Friday.

Chishimba called for streamlined and efficient access to the fund to address climate-related disasters in Zambia and other vulnerable regions.

Chishimba highlighted the importance of increased international climate financing for adaptation projects that help communities, particularly in the Global South, withstand extreme weather.

She also stressed that Africa’s climate finance needs should be scaled up to US$1.3 trillion by 2030, a significant increase from the current target of US$100 billion.

“Citizens, particularly young people, should hold the government accountable for its climate commitments,” she said.

Chishimba advocated for evidence-driven climate policies and increased youth representation in climate discussions.

The communiqué also urged the Zambian government to address water scarcity in rural and urban areas and to reaffirm its commitment to the Paris Agreement, which remained partially unmet.

Sitwala Lipalile, Movement Manager for Youth for Climate Change, praised efforts to reach rural communities with climate solutions but voiced concerns over bureaucratic obstacles that hindered youth participation in climate initiatives.

Lipalile additionally warned of potential setbacks if former U.S. President Donald Trump, a climate change skeptic, returns to office.

He encouraged Africa to develop self-sustained climate resilience strategies and reduce reliance on international aid.

“The participation of Zambian youth at COP29 shows their commitment to creating a sustainable, resilient future,” Lipalile said.

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