Bridging Generations for Climate Security, Mine Action, and Peace in Africa

On January 22, 2025, a groundbreaking virtual webinar convened under the Climate Security (CLIMSEC) Africa initiative spotlighted the complex intersection of climate change, mine action, and peace in Africa. Hosted by the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) in collaboration with Mines Action Canada (MAC), the event fostered an intergenerational dialogue that underscored the importance of unified action to confront cascading environmental and security challenges across the continent.

Africa faces a perfect storm of challenges, where climate change acts as a “threat multiplier,” exacerbating resource conflicts, displacing communities, and threatening livelihoods. These issues are further complicated by the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance, which not only endanger lives but also hinder development and peacebuilding efforts. The webinar’s discussions highlighted that addressing these interconnected threats requires an integrated and inclusive approach, prioritizing both local voices and innovative solutions.

Youth involvement emerged as a recurring theme throughout the dialogue. With Africa’s youth unemployment rates reaching as high as 70% in some countries, the continent is grappling with a ticking time bomb of untapped potential. Speakers called for a reimagining of Africa’s economic landscape, where green jobs in sectors like renewable energy, agroforestry, and waste management could provide sustainable opportunities. “By equipping young people with climate literacy and green skills, we can transform them into leaders of climate adaptation and environmental restoration,” noted Faith Ngige, National Coordinator for the Kenya Platform for Climate Governance.

The webinar also explored how climate-induced migration intersects with security concerns. Walter Kasempa, a Migration Youth Ambassador with the African Union, shed light on how displacement caused by climate disasters, such as droughts and floods, exacerbates vulnerabilities in areas contaminated by landmines. He called for cross-sectoral solutions that integrate mine action with climate adaptation strategies to protect displaced communities and uphold their human rights.

Technological innovation was identified as a vital tool in addressing these challenges. Joshua Tetteh Ayayi, a Google-certified project manager, discussed the potential of emerging technologies such as drones and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in demining efforts. He emphasized that the continent’s entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with pan-African cooperation, could unlock solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems. “Africa must focus on commercializing existing ideas while fostering collaboration under the spirit of ubuntu,” he said, urging for easier mobility and business opportunities across the continent.

Gender inclusivity was another focal point, with speakers highlighting the disproportionate impact of climate and security crises on women. Dr. Joyce Takaindisa of the Alliance Bioversity-CIAT emphasized that men are at higher risk of injuries from explosive remnants of war, while women face increased caregiving burdens. She advocated for gender-responsive mine action programs, disaggregated data, and targeted policies to address these inequities. “A gendered lens is critical to ensuring that no one is left behind in Africa’s quest for climate security,” she stated.

The discussions also brought attention to the role of youth in peacebuilding efforts. Ambassador Mpule Kgetsi, African Union Youth Ambassador for Peace, noted that young people, often the most affected by environmental disasters and conflicts, are also key players in developing solutions. She urged for greater recognition of youth-led initiatives and the creation of enabling environments to amplify their impact. “Youth voices must be at the forefront, shaping policies and strategies that resonate with their lived experiences,” she said.

Ultimately, the webinar underscored the need for a holistic approach that integrates climate security into peace agreements, leverages technology and prioritizes youth and community-led initiatives. The conversations also called for sustainable funding models, better data collection, and stronger institutional frameworks to tackle Africa’s multifaceted challenges.

As Africa stands at the crossroads of climate and security risks, the event highlighted the power of collaboration across generations and sectors. By fostering intergenerational dialogue, equipping young leaders, and embracing inclusive policies, the continent can move toward a future of resilience and peace—a vision that resonates deeply as stakeholders work to address the climate-security nexus with urgency and unity.