At the opening of the 2025 Africa Youth Climate Assembly at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in this capital, Tiruneh commented that although the continent contributes little to global greenhouse gas emissions, bears the brunt of the crisis as it faces drought, desertification, food insecurity and flooding.

However, amid these challenges, Ethiopia’s progress in climate-resilient green development represents a glimmer of hope for the continent, he said.

“Thanks to the Green Legacy Initiative, launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, more than 48 billion seedlings have been planted, millions of jobs have been created for young people and measures have been taken to ensure food for future generations,” he said.

In the same vein, he said that Addis Ababa’s commitment to renewable and clean energy for the region demonstrates how Africa’s vision can be achieved through the active participation of its people.

As the continent’s source of strength and hope, African youth must continue to lead with innovation, collaboration and bold actions to build a truly climate resilient Africa, he concluded.

For her part, the Ethiopian Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Assefa, warned that the continent contributes less than four percent of global emissions but bears the greatest climate burden.

“Our young people are not only the heirs of today’s challenges, but also the architects of tomorrow’s solutions,” emphasized Assefa.

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