The grant seeks to support initiatives of young people geared towards addressing environmental issues in the city.
In her launch statement, Rohey Malick Lowe said the climate project will be an all-encompassing, phased climate activity solution, which she added, will address climate change and related issues.
"I continue the trend of my developing programmes and initiatives to improve the lives of the people of our capital city and the many others who interact within our corridors of business, public service and social life."Lowe stated.
She acknowledged the fact that there is no hidden secret that Banjul, just like many other cities around the world, is grappling with the realities of the 21st century; which includes- youth unemployment, environmental degradation, increasing economic instability.
In view of this fact, she stated that it is their collective responsibility as leaders in the public and private sector to ensure that they develop safe spaces for their people during these trying times.
She equally encouraged individuals engaged in climate action activities to come forward and apply for the grant that can help complement their efforts in the fight against climate change in Banjul and beyond.
Also speaking, Fallou Gallas Ceesay, Nominated Councilor, said Banjul joins a prestigious group of 100 cities worldwide, each selected to participate in the Youth Climate Action Fund.
“This collaboration spans 38 countries across six continents, representing over 62 million residents. Together, we are poised to activate a groundswell of youth-driven climate action, catalysing change at the local level with global impact.”
The climate fund, she added, is designed to mobilise young residents, aged 15 to 24 years, to create and govern urgent climate solutions.
“We encourage all our youth to visit the REFELA, The Gambia Facebook page to learn more about this opportunity and to submit their innovative ideas for funding.”
Councillor Ceesay reminded that climate change is real and it is here, noting that 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."
He also alluded that local governments are the frontline responders to the climate crisis and that over the past decade, cities have led the charge in climate mitigation and adaptation.
“However, we know that our efforts must intensify. The Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund equips us with the tools, techniques, and support to harness the energy and creativity of our youth in solving climate challenges.”
“Our first phase of the Youth Climate Action Fund initiative is centered around youth involvement in cleaning the city. This is a critical step in fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership among our young citizens.”
He informed that the lifeline, continuity, and sustainability of the initiative depend on our collective commitment, sacrifice, and professionalism.
“We pledge to be as accountable and transparent as possible, ensuring that every disbursement is used effectively and responsibly. Initial disbursement can always be easy, but the lack of accountability makes following disbursement difficult. Therefore we must uphold the highest standards of integrity in our actions.”
