Tanzanian young activist, Getrude Clement, a 16-year-old radio reporter and UNICEF climate advocate, represented the country by gracing the Paris Climate Agreement signing ceremony at the UN General Assembly Hall.
In her opening speech, in front of delegates from more than 170 countries, including over 60 Heads of State. she focused on why climate action is crucial for children.
World leaders met in New York yesterday to sign the Paris Climate Agreement – a historic environmental accord to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support poorer countries in coping with the effects of extreme weather. Tanzania is among 195 countries that will ratify this agreement.
In her speech, Getrude said although adults think children are too young to understand the risks and realities of climate change, they see the effects in their daily lives. And they are aware that climate change poses a big problem for the entire planet.
“As young people, the future is ours but this is not the future we want for ourselves. But we are not just sitting by watching our communities suffer. We are leading our communities in taking action, standing up and speaking out about the issues we see,” she said. Getrude is part of an international network of young reporters, who document the negative effects of climate change and positive actions to mitigate the effects.
“In Tanzania we visited many places in our community spoke to citizens about climate change and environmental pollution. I visited a place where people sell fruits and vegetables next to a dump site,” she said and added, “We also learned about children who have difficulty going to school safely because of flooding. We post stories like these on a digital map so people around the world can learn about our experiences. We also report the issues on our live radio and TV programmes.”
She concluded by calling on all stakeholders to action, saying: “We expect more than words on paper and promises. We expect action. Action on a big scale.” expect action today, not tomorrow. I expect to return to Tanzania and tell my fellows that the future is ours and the future is bright.”
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