The Launch of Climate Justice Incubator Program

On July 20th, 2024, the ICE Institute proudly welcomed 120 young individuals selected to participate in the Climate Justice Incubator program. This event marked the beginning of a transformative journey for these aspiring climate leaders, who hail from over 10 universities in Mogadishu. The orientation and onboarding session was a significant moment, bringing together enthusiastic participants and esteemed leaders of the institute to set the stage for this groundbreaking initiative.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from the Director of the ICE Institute, Mr Mohamed Okash, who expressed excitement and pride in the diverse group of young environmentalists joining the program. The director emphasized the critical role these participants will play in driving Somalia towards a more sustainable and just future.

Following the director’s address, Ustaad Abdikafi and Liban took the stage to share their insights on the goals and objectives of the Climate Justice Incubator. Their speeches highlighted the importance of climate justice, particularly in Somalia, one of the most vulnerable countries to the climate crisis. They inspired the attendees by underlining the power of youth in leading the way toward a just transition.

Together with Oxfam Somalia and ICE Institute, the Climate Justice Incubator program is designed to equip young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to advocate for climate justice. Throughout the program, participants will engage in a series of training sessions focusing on three core areas:

1. Climate Justice: Understanding the principles of climate justice and the unique challenges faced by vulnerable communities in Somalia.

2. Climate Leadership: Developing leadership skills to effectively drive climate action and influence policy at local, national, and global levels.

3. Storytelling: Harnessing the power of storytelling to communicate the urgency of the climate crisis and inspire collective action.

The ultimate aim of the Climate Justice Incubator is to cultivate a green generation that will lead Somalia toward a just transition. By empowering these young leaders with the tools and knowledge they need, the program seeks to foster a deep understanding of climate justice and instill a sense of responsibility to advocate for and implement sustainable solutions. As the orientation session concluded, there was a palpable sense of excitement and determination among the participants. The journey ahead is rewarding, as these young leaders work together to address the pressing climate issues facing Somalia.

The ICE Institute is committed to supporting these participants every step of the way, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and platforms needed to make a meaningful impact. Together, we look forward to witnessing the transformative change these young climate champions will bring to Somalia and beyond.