From 27 to 28 September 2024, Bujumbura, Burundi, hosted a crucial meeting for the future of climate justice in the African Great Lakes region. This event, organized by the Mama Odari Association (Kalemie/DRC), the Aube Nouvelle pour les Femmes Association (Maniema/DRC) and FADESCO of Burundi, brought together key actors to develop a common climate justice advocacy agenda. Funded by the Global Alliance for Green and Gender Action (GAGGA) through the Fondo Centroamericano de Mujeres (FCAM), this event highlighted the importance of collective action in the face of environmental challenges. 

 The African Great Lakes region faces major environmental challenges, including climate change, deforestation and biodiversity loss. These challenges have direct impacts on local communities, particularly women, who are often the most affected by environmental crises. The aim of this meeting was to create an advocacy framework that will strengthen the voices of women and marginalized communities in discussions on climate justice.

Topics Covered

Several themes were discussed during this meeting, including:

1. The impact of climate change on local communities : Participants shared testimonies on the effects of climate change on agriculture, access to water and food security.

2. The role of women in the fight for climate justice : Discussions took place on the importance of including women in environmental decision-making processes and on women-led initiatives to promote sustainability.

3. Advocacy Strategies : Participants worked together to develop advocacy strategies that aim to influence public policies and mobilize resources for environmental projects.

The meeting to develop a common agenda for climate justice advocacy in the African Great Lakes region was a defining moment to strengthen cooperation between local and international organizations. With the support of GAGGA and FCAM, this event helped to lay the foundations for collective action towards a sustainable and equitable future. The outcomes of this meeting will be essential to guide future efforts and ensure that the voices of women and marginalized communities are heard in discussions on climate justice.

Call to action

We encourage all parties to continue supporting local initiatives and engage in concrete actions to address climate challenges. Together, we can build a future where climate justice is at the heart of policies and actions in the African Great Lakes region.