A non-profit organization focused on environmental conservation related to climate change, Revamp Rave Network (RRN), has urged African government bodies to integrate community perspectives into the formulation of climate change policies throughout the continent.

Abimbola Abikoye, the founder and convener of the Coastal Rural Community Conference on Climate Change, conveyed this message during the opening address at a one-day conference held in Lagos State.

Addressing the conference themed “Strengthening the Capacity of Coastal Communities in Climate Adaptation and Mitigation for more Ocean Governance,” Abikoye underscored the significance of incorporating local knowledge and viewpoints into the development of effective climate change mitigation strategies.

She emphasized that community-driven approaches are crucial for crafting sustainable policies that align with the challenges faced by residents in coastal regions. Abikoye highlighted that the resolutions formed during the conference, which brought together over 500 coastal rural women, men, and individuals with disabilities from the five largest fishing communities in Lagos, would be documented and presented to government representatives at all levels. The aim is to promote comprehensive and sustainable policy development.

The conference featured speakers such as Mr. Bankole Michael, the Director of the Department of Climate Change, Lagos State Ministry of Environment, and Mr. Wellington O. Omoragbon, the Director of the United Nations Information Centre. Both speakers emphasized the need for increased awareness and education on climate issues. They called on governments, individuals, and NGOs to enhance their efforts in disseminating climate change literacy at the grassroots level.

The speakers also discussed the importance of enhancing community capacity in climate adaptation and mitigation for effective ocean governance.

Participants at the event were encouraged to prioritize climate change considerations and adopt best practices in their fishing activities.

The conference received support from Ocean Justice Africa, Department of Fisheries, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, UN Ocean Decade-Early Career Ocean Professional Programme, MushinToTheWorld Foundation, and Lekan Bakare Foundation.

Aishat Abdullahi; From the News Source: DailyTrust