From October 8th to 12th, 2024, GENDERISE had the honor of participating in the third edition of the Climate Justice Camp2024, an event organized by the Roots team in partnership with The Advocacy Academy, Students For Earth - Tunisia, Amnesty International MENA, Fem Movement for Economic, Development and Ecological Justice, Care About Climate, and Latinas for Climate. Abigail Ocheni, the Program Manager, represented GENDERISE in this gathering. It was more than a networking opportunity; it was an inspiring journey alongside thought leaders, activists, and advocates deeply committed to advancing climate justice.
A Sanctuary for Change
Set against the serene landscapes of Arusha, Tanzania, the MS Training Centre for Development Cooperation (MS TCDC) provided an inspiring venue for the camp, serving as both a peaceful, natural landscape and a haven for climate activists to connect, recharge, and find solidarity in their shared goals and struggles. Surrounded by vibrant greenery, a gentle breeze, and the aromas of blossoming flowers, this natural haven encouraged reflection and community-building, perfectly framing the discussions on climate and social justice. Gathering over 300 organizers, advocates, and activists, many from regions hit hardest by climate change were united by a shared vision to demand climate justice and pursue a sustainable future. Each moment in this oasis felt like a breath of renewal, urging us to dive into pressing issues with fresh energy and resolve.
Engaging Discussions and Collaborative Learning
The program spanned six thematic tracks: Conflict and Demilitarization, Road to COP, Energy Transition, Adaptation and Resilience, Plastics Pollution, and Gender and Climate. Each track included an array of various sessions from media training to qualitative research methodologies, designed to equip us with essential tools to propel climate action. The camp opened with a powerful plenary by the Roots team, emphasizing the urgency of climate justice. GENDERISE had the privilege of highlighting our work during the Initiative Fair, showcasing our mission and programs focused on the intersection of gender, climate change, and security. Nhlanhla Sibisi led the Solidarity Index Conversation Circles, emphasizing allyship and the transformative power of storytelling in advancing climate action. We explored what makes allyship truly impactful, touching on themes of solidarity, justice, decolonization, movement building, and the undeniable power of people's stories. It’s clear that to build a climate-just future, people power and collective action are key to driving the change we seek.
Gender and Climate Justice
An insightful session on Gender and Climate Justice: A Grounded Exploration. was anchored by Amena Sharaf, Environmental Justice Consultant, and Christine Samwaroo, Gender, and Environmental Justice Professional, highlighting the intersection of industrialization, patriarchy, and gender roles in shaping climate impacts. From intersectionality to the challenges of representation and tokenization in decision-making, this session provided a deep understanding of how climate change affects people differently.
NDCs and the Transition to a Fossil-Free World Presented by Basmallah from Care About Climate focused on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). She explored their key components, the NDC Equity Tracker, and the crucial role of the global stocktake in holding countries accountable to climate action. Workshop and circle session led by Allie Cockburn from Amnesty International, discussing Climate Justice and the Right to Health. Participants reflected on who is most affected by climate change's impact on health and the specific health outcomes affecting their communities.
Mapping Movements
In a session on mapping climate and gender movements, facilitated by Felisa Aguilar, María Rosario Coll, Resilience & Media Organizer at Roots, we explored community priorities around climate and gender equity. We examined how diverse groups drive solutions and discussed the importance of localized climate resilience strategies in vulnerable regions. Nura Mohamed, Country Program Manager at ActionAid, facilitated a compelling workshop on Climate Change Reality, Climate Resilience, and Climate Adaptation. The session emphasized the importance of climate adaptation and included a case study analysis of coastal Bangladesh, highlighting the critical need for climate resilience strategies in vulnerable areas.
The Role of Movements in the Just Energy Transition
A pivotal workshop by Cynthia Moyo-Sibindi from Greenpeace Africa highlighted the need for movements to defend communities that might be disadvantaged in the transition, ensuring equity remains a priority. Her insights illuminated the vital role of adaptation strategies in achieving sustainable energy solutions.
Fostering Climate Youth Resilience
The Climate Youth Resilience (CYR) session stressed the importance of internal strength to sustain climate movements. We reflected on ways to support the mental well-being of youth navigating rising climate-related risks, examining the intersection of environmental destruction and other crises. The readiness to engage deeply with these tender aspects was both moving and essential.
Women in Mangrove Conservation
At a side event on mangrove conservation, Joy Koech, co-founder of Blue Earth, highlighted the role of women as protectors of mangroves, showcasing their significant contributions to biodiversity and livelihood preservation. Her session underlined a powerful truth: empowering women is integral to empowering nature.
Addressing Climate Anxiety
As the camp unfolded, we addressed the emotional strain of climate anxiety, particularly the grief and loss tied to environmental degradation. Led by Nura Mohamed, Country Program Manager ActionAid led an intense discussion on "Bounce Back Better," focusing on the emotional toll of climate anxiety. Participants who experienced climate disasters shared their stories of grief, loss, and fear. With the expert guidance of psychologists Elizabeth Kasujja and Nadia Ally Ahmed present, participants explored the key characteristics of climate anxiety, understanding that it affects not only those directly impacted but also those witnessing these changes unfold globally. The conversation turned emotional as many asked for advice on coping mechanisms and building resilience in an increasingly uncertain world. They shared examples of how youth can channel their anxiety into innovation and action, helping to create more climate-resilient solutions. Participants who had lived through floods, droughts, and other disasters spoke up, sharing their ways of adapting and surviving. The session ended with a hopeful energy, as we brainstormed practical steps and innovations for building stronger, climate-resilient communities. The resilience of those affected by climate change is inspiring, but their need for support and new solutions is greater than ever.
A Call to Action
As we face the urgent realities of climate change, we call on leaders, policymakers, and citizens around the world to stand with us in driving forward a just and sustainable future. Now more than ever, it’s essential to place the voices of the most vulnerable at the heart of climate action. To policymakers and global leaders: it’s time to enact and enforce policies that not only address the climate crisis but also prioritize the needs of marginalized communities, protect biodiversity, and ensure a fair transition to renewable energy. Let’s create policies that promote resilience, equity, and long-term sustainability. To climate activists and advocacy groups: continue championing the stories and needs of those on the frontlines. Share your voices, build alliances, and demand accountability from those in power. Together, we can create a powerful movement that drives meaningful change. To every global citizen: join us in the fight for climate justice by supporting grassroots organizations, reducing your carbon footprint, and holding corporations accountable.
Comments