Children take centre stage in new global climate push
Children pose for a photo during World Children’s Day at the Kenya Meteorological Department grounds in Nairobi, marking the launch of the Global Triple C Campaign on Children, Climate Action, and Conservation. Photo/Sande Onyango
Children were placed at the heart of climate action as the Africa Community of Planetary Partners for Health and Environment (ACOPPHE) and the African Coalition of Communities Responsive to Climate Change (ACCRCC) launched the Global Triple C Campaign during World Children’s Day at the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) grounds in Nairobi.
Speaking at the event, ACOPPHE Executive Director Nathaniel Uchtmann explained that the Triple C Campaign, which stands for Children, Climate Action and Conservation, aims to unite communities, institutions, and children in protecting the planet.
He said the campaign will bring together people of all ages, including teachers, parents, the clergy, and community leaders, to empower children and ensure their rights are realised.
“We are connecting these three C’s so that we unite intergenerationally the young and the old, people representing different professions, pastors, community leaders, teachers, parents," he said.
Dr Uchtmann added that the initiative will align with global observances and Sustainable Development Goals to sustain engagement throughout the year.
“This is a global rallying cry inviting people who are advocates for children and even children themselves to unite for healthy children and a healthy planet for all,” he said.
Dr Pamela Kaithuru of ACCRCC highlighted the severe impact of climate change on children, noting that extreme weather, rising temperatures, and disasters leave many children vulnerable.
She said children often go without food, lose access to education, and are sometimes displaced during floods.
“Children oftentimes go without food, children are in displacement camps, children lose out on education, and some encounter death when floods occur,” she said.
Dr Kaithuru added that engaging children in climate action is crucial. At the event, children participated in tree planting, recycling exercises, and performed climate-themed songs to promote awareness.
“Children are feeling included and meaningfully participating in securing our planet by understanding what climate change is and how it affects them,” she said.
Charles Mwangi of the Kenya Meteorological Department warned that the country is already experiencing unusual weather patterns, including suppressed rainfall and rising temperatures.
He said the lack of expected rains threatens food production and increases health risks for children.
“Even today (yesterday), being November 20, 2025, you can see it is hot and the rains are just pockets here and there. This will lead to some sort of drought. Who are the first to be affected? Our children,” he said.
Mr Mwangi urged parents, institutions, and policymakers to act immediately to safeguard children against the impacts of climate change.
“Children are the future of not just Kenya, but of the planet. We must teach them and ourselves to take care of the environment to address climate challenges,” he said.
Organisers said the Triple C Campaign will continue to engage children and communities through schools, public institutions, and global events, ensuring young people remain active participants in shaping climate solutions.
