Article

Africa Must Lead Its Own Climate Adaptation: The Role of Research, Development, and Empowering Young People

Africa is at the forefront of the climate crisis, facing severe challenges such as heat waves, droughts, floods, and the displacement of millions of people. Year after year, thousands of lives are lost, and the effects are devastating, especially in vulnerable communities. While the world recognizes Africa as one of the least contributors to climate change, we still face its harshest consequences. The promises of support from developed countries, often made at global climate summits, have repeatedly fallen short. It has become clear that relying solely on external assistance is not a sustainable solution. As we advocate for climate justice, we must also take charge of our own salvation.

Training community advocates on the effective use digital tools to fight environmental issues
Training community advocates on the effective use digital tools to fight environmental issues

We have to shift from playing the victim, even though we have been wronged. The corporations responsible for emissions are focused on profits, and we cannot always count on them for solutions. While we continue to petition, advocate, and call out these entities for their part in this crisis, we must simultaneously focus on saving lives, innovating, and developing local solutions. We must become the change the world looks up to in the fight against climate change.
Climate change is an evolving science, and Africa has the potential to lead this evolution. By localizing our impact first, we can create sustainable solutions that address our specific needs before expanding to make a global difference. We have young, talented, and passionate individuals capable of harnessing the power of science, technology, the humanities, and the arts to drive sustainable change and create adaptable frameworks that suit the unique climate challenges in Nigeria and across the continent.

https://youtu.be/N8iq_0I-gG4


Capacity Building for Climate Justice Advocates in Nigeria
Capacity Building for Climate Justice Advocates in Nigeria

This is the driving force behind the Lincgreen Climate Change Academy, our commitment to raising, training, and reinforcing passionate climate justice advocates. We plug into existing platforms, such as those offered by We Don't Have Time, and actively participate in programs and events to gain insights into global climate conversations. Every week, we gather to discuss how we can translate these complex discussions into actionable local solutions and be relevant to our communities and economy.

LINCGREEN CLIMATE CHANGE ACADEMY - FIRST COHORT
LINCGREEN CLIMATE CHANGE ACADEMY - FIRST COHORT

At Lincgreen Climate Change Academy, we began with over 20 members, and our first cohort saw eight individuals complete the introductory course on climate change and human rights. Our journey does not end here; it is just the beginning. Our vision is to expand our reach, train more advocates, and create a ripple effect of change. With every course and certification, we are building a generation of young people who understand the science behind climate change, the historical context, the policies, and the solutions. We aim to cultivate a generation that comprehends carbon emissions, the Paris Agreement, COP negotiations, climate adaptation, and mitigation strategies—all critical components of the climate struggle.

Weekly Review Classes at our office in Rivers State, Nigeria
Weekly Review Classes at our office in Rivers State, Nigeria

Research and development are key to fostering climate resilience in Africa, and education is the foundation of this effort. We need to empower young people, invest in knowledge, and create systems that allow them to apply what they learn to real-world problems. Only then can we innovate and adapt effectively, leading Africa toward sustainable development.
Climate action is not just about survival; it is about empowerment. By investing in our youth and reinforcing the importance of research and localized innovation, we take our future into our own hands. The Lincgreen Climate Change Academy aims to do precisely that: build a generation of solution-driven advocates who can lead the way in climate adaptation and resilience. We cannot afford to wait for the rest of the world to save us, we must save ourselves, and education is our most powerful tool.



As we move forward, we are committed to expanding our programs and creating disruptive change. We believe in the potential of young people, and with their passion and knowledge, we will drive sustainable solutions, turning Africa from a vulnerable victim of climate change into a resilient leader. Our work is just beginning, and we will continue to push for the education, research, and development necessary to build a sustainable future.

We are opened to collaboration
  • Annett Michuki..

    9 w

    the governments and AU should work hand in hand

    Re-watch all our COP29 broadcasts

    We need to stop methane and #BuyMoreTime