Addis ababa: Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh emphasized the crucial role of African youth in achieving "Agenda 2063: the Africa We Want," urging them to be ambitious, innovative, and collaborative. He highlighted the paradox of Africa's minimal contribution to global emissions and its disproportionate vulnerability to climate challenges, such as droughts and floods.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Deputy Prime Minister made these remarks during the African Youth Climate Assembly in Addis Ababa, which focuses on empowering youth to address climate change and promote sustainable development. He stressed that the future of Africa depends on the active engagement of its young population, which constitutes over sixty percent of the continent's demographics.

Temesgen Tiruneh called on the youth to dream big, speak boldly, and collaborate across borders, highlighting Ethiopia's role as a renewable energy hub and its Green Legacy Initiative as examples of successful collaboration. He underscored the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation in unlocking Africa's vast potential.

Mithika Mwenda, Executive Director of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance, pointed out that 110 million Africans have been affected by climate-related disasters in 2024. He emphasized the need for youth to lead the fight for climate justice and to actively participate in shaping Africa's climate agenda.

Ethiopia's Women and Social Affairs Minister, Ergogie Tesfaye, acknowledged the transformative power of African youth, who are turning challenges into opportunities through green enterprises and solar solutions. She highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative's role in youth empowerment and called for actionable partnerships from the assembly.

Planning and Development Minister, Fitsum Assefa, urged immediate action from African youth, emphasizing their influence on the upcoming African Climate Summit. She drew inspiration from historical African victories to encourage unity and courage in combating climate change.