Fifty young Climate Tech Innovators and leaders
Ghana welcomes fifty young climate tech innovators and leaders from across 19 African nations for a transformative three-week leadership and professional development program sponsored by the U.S. Government. This initiative, known as the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Regional Leadership Center West Africa, was announced during Vice President Harris’s historic visit to Ghana in March 2023. The program, hosted by YALI, will inspire emerging leaders and entrepreneurs to harness innovative technology to address pressing climate challenges through social and business solutions.
Empowering African Leadership in Climate Action
The importance of African leadership in tackling the defining challenge of our time, climate change, cannot be overstated. U.S. Ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer emphasized the critical role of African leadership in addressing climate change during the welcome event for the cohort of young climate tech innovators. She underscored the long-standing partnership between the U.S. government and Ghanaian and African youth in advancing mutual priorities, particularly climate change.
This visionary program results from a collaborative endeavor involving three YALI Regional Leadership Centers: East Africa, Southern Africa, and West Africa. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funds this initiative. It is a testament to the dedication of these centers to empowering the youth in the fight against climate change.
Dr. Esi E. Sey, Project Director of YALI RLC Accra, aptly stated, “There are no boundaries when it comes to climate change.” The Climate Tech Innovators and Leaders Program seeks to unite young people across Africa to create a world where climate tech knows no boundaries. This emphasis on collaboration and innovation underscores the program’s commitment to shaping a sustainable future.
A Unique Opportunity for Transformation
The YALI Climate Tech Innovators and Leaders’ Program offers a distinctive opportunity for emerging African leaders to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to make a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change. This initiative fosters individual growth and establishes invaluable relationships and networks among the continent’s young leaders. Since its inception in 2015, YALI Regional Leadership Centers in Africa have successfully trained over 7,800 young leaders.
Empowering Africa’s Climate Champions
The YALI Climate Tech Innovators and Leaders Program significantly empowers Africa’s future climate champions. As climate change continues to pose complex challenges, innovative solutions, and strong leadership are essential. This program embodies the spirit of cooperation, education, and empowerment to ensure the continent’s youth is well-prepared to confront climate change head-on.
