Mbabane – The Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs has outlined the priorities of the second cohort of the Climate Change Youth Parliament during a launch held in Mbabane. The programme is structured to function as a national platform where young people can take part in climate governance and contribute to policy discussions that affect the country’s future.
Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta Simelane told participants that young people across Eswatini are already experiencing the effects of climate change. She said their involvement in national planning is necessary as the country works to address growing environmental challenges.
The Climate Change Youth Parliament is expected to create space for young people to share their views on climate issues, propose solutions and engage directly with policymakers. Officials said the initiative aims to reduce the communication gap between decision makers and the youth, who are often left out of formal policy processes.
Another priority of the programme is to promote open and inclusive dialogue among young people from different regions, communities and backgrounds so that climate discussions reflect diverse experiences, including those of groups most affected by climate related impacts.
The Youth Parliament will also provide training in leadership, climate science and policy engagement to help young participants contribute effectively to national climate planning. The platform is further expected to support innovation by encouraging the development of practical solutions to issues such as extreme weather, drought, land degradation and other climate threats facing the country.
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