Combating environmental and ecosystem degradation in Ziguinchor: Youth mobilize for strong civic engagement

In Ziguinchor, the celebration of World Environment Day turned into a true demonstration of civic engagement. Students, teachers, and local authorities joined their voices and steps to remind everyone that youth are not only the future, but already the driving force behind the urgent need to address climate challenges.

Led by the Citizens' Association for Climate and Conservation (A3C), a hike marked the start of the activities. The procession, which began at schools, ended at the University of Ziguinchor.

For Sadou Ba, executive director of A3C, the objective is clear: "We want to enable children to understand the challenges of climate change and to become the main players in the fight. Tomorrow, they will be rectors, directors or presidents, and they need to be sensitive to environmental issues."

The university, represented by Dr. Ousmane Basse, proudly hosted the event. "This is of paramount importance, because the environment is not an individual issue, but a collective one. We must empower individuals, businesses, and communities, and encourage immediate action on greenhouse gases."

Young people, the primary target of this initiative, responded enthusiastically. Amina Lu, president of the Municipal Youth Advisory Council, stated, "This activity motivates young people to understand the true meaning of the environment. They need to be informed, supported, and listened to."

Oumou Khalsoum Sané, a 9th-grade student at CEM Kenya, insisted: "Today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. We must protect the environment and raise awareness in our communities."

The Kayanor Climate Competition, held at CEM Kenya, extended this momentum by providing students with a forum for debate on climate issues. For Amarou Djiba, coordinator of the EVF club, it represents an investment in the future. "We must educate these children from a young age, because tomorrow they will be ministers, members of parliament, or teachers. Our hope is that they will make responsible decisions for the environment."

Academic authorities also offered their support. Mamadou Lamine Sané, representing the Ziguinchor regional education authority, emphasized that "without an environment, our existence is threatened. These activities are essential for educating our students and instilling in them eco-friendly practices."

This mobilization, held on the sidelines of World Environment Day, celebrated every June 5th, demonstrated that the youth of Ziguinchor are ready to take on the climate challenge. By bringing together schools, universities, NGOs, and institutions, A3C and its partners are laying the foundations for a sustainable, eco-conscious culture. Today's children, aware and engaged, are becoming the bearers of a future where the environment is no longer an option, but a vital necessity.