Among the ideas presented were the use of smart digital grids, the creation of mechanisms for renewable energy storage, and the promotion of fairer climate financing that enables vulnerable communities to access sustainable solutions.
At a critical moment for the fight against climate change in the country and beyond, young people from different provinces gathered to advocate for an energy transition model that combines social justice, inclusion, and political courage.
This initiative comes at a time when the world faces increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and invest in renewable energy.
During the session, participants discussed concrete proposals to accelerate the country’s energy transition. Among the ideas presented were the use of smart digital grids, the creation of mechanisms for renewable energy storage, and the promotion of fairer climate financing that enables vulnerable communities to access sustainable solutions.
Laura Tomm-Bonde, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator ad interim in Mozambique, emphasized that the country is among the most exposed to the impacts of climate change, which requires greater youth involvement in finding solutions to address the problem.
“The country is one of the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, so youth must be at the center of responses and solutions,” she stated.
Along the same lines, Marcelina Mataveia, National Director of Energy at the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy, argued that the country needs to move from rhetoric to practice and ensure that everyone has fair and sustainable access to energy.
“We need to turn words into concrete actions. Access to clean energy and social justice is a right for all,” she stressed.
For Flávia Nicole Bila, a young representative of YCAC Mozambique, the country’s new generation has the qualities needed to take a leadership role in transforming the energy sector.
“Mozambican youth are creative, resilient, and ready to lead this transformation,” she stated.
The discussion reinforced the importance of placing young people at the center of the country’s climate and energy policies, not only as beneficiaries but as active protagonists in creating innovative solutions.
Moreover, the meeting sought to show that the energy transition is not only a response to an environmental crisis but also an opportunity to rethink Mozambique’s development. With investments in clean and affordable energy, the country could reduce inequalities, create green jobs, and promote more just and inclusive growth.
The meeting was organized by UN Mozambique, in partnership with YCAC MOZ, and included representatives from youth civil society, government authorities, and United Nations agencies. The event was inspired by the global call “Moment of Opportunity,” made by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, urging countries to adopt more ambitious and urgent measures to tackle the climate crisis.
(By Renaldo Manhice)
