The initiative has been rolled out to offer technical assistance and funding for 100 mayors to engage tens of thousands of young people aged 15 to 24 in designing, implementing, and governing urgent climate solutions in cities worldwide.
Banjul's participation in the Fund aligns with cities from around the globe, spanning 38 countries across six continents and representing over 62 million residents.
Speaking to the media, Mayor Lowe stated: “As part of this program, Banjul will receive $50,000 to distribute as micro grants, funding a wave of youth-led climate initiatives.”
The endeavours, she explained, would range from mobilising tree-planting or public education campaigns to launching recycling or waste reduction initiatives, as well as participating in mitigation planning or preparedness programs.
“The efforts stemming from the new Youth Climate Action Fund will propel critical community objectives such as fulfilling decarburisation commitments or curbing consumption-based emissions,” she said.
Mayor Lowe encourages young residents aged 15 – 24 years to visit the REFELA, The Gambia Facebook page to learn more about the Youth Climate Action Fund, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, and how to submit ideas for the opportunity to receive funding.
“Climate Change is real and it is here,” she affirms. “Small island cities like ours will be the most affected by its impact. We must develop and embrace innovative and bold solutions globally if we want to even begin to fight its impact. It is no longer business-as-usual and our youth must be at the fore of this process.”
The Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund will equip cities with the tools, techniques, and support needed to harness innovative approaches that encourage and facilitate robust youth collaboration in addressing climate challenges and shaping policies. The programme will be facilitated by the United Cities and Local Governments, in collaboration with the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University. Additionally, “C40 Cities and the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy will serve as key partners” for learning and collaboration.
