Tanzanian young
activist, Getrude Clement, a 16-year-old radio reporter and UNICEF
climate advocate, represented the country by gracing the Paris Climate
Agreement signing ceremony at the UN General Assembly Hall.
In
her opening speech, in front of delegates from more than 170 countries,
including over 60 Heads of State. she focused on why climate action is
crucial for children.
World
leaders met in New York yesterday to sign the Paris Climate Agreement –
a historic environmental accord to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and
support poorer countries in coping with the effects of extreme weather.
Tanzania is among 195 countries that will ratify this agreement.
In
her speech, Getrude said although adults think children are too young
to understand the risks and realities of climate change, they see the
effects in their daily lives. And they are aware that climate change
poses a big problem for the entire planet.
“As
young people, the future is ours but this is not the future we want for
ourselves. But we are not just sitting by watching our communities
suffer. We are leading our communities in taking action, standing up and
speaking out about the issues we see,” she said. Getrude is part of an
international network of young reporters, who document the negative
effects of climate change and positive actions to mitigate the effects.
“In
Tanzania we visited many places in our community spoke to citizens
about climate change and environmental pollution. I visited a place
where people sell fruits and vegetables next to a dump site,” she said
and added, “We also learned about children who have difficulty going to
school safely because of flooding. We post stories like these on a
digital map so people around the world can learn about our experiences.
We also report the issues on our live radio and TV programmes.”
She
concluded by calling on all stakeholders to action, saying: “We expect
more than words on paper and promises. We expect action. Action on a big
scale.” expect action today, not tomorrow. I expect to return to
Tanzania and tell my fellows that the future is ours and the future is
bright.”