In anticipation of the upcoming 4th session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4), the Green African Youth Organization (GAYO) Uganda, in collaboration with various partners, organized two pivotal events.
These included a webinar on April 11th, 2024, titled “What’s Next in the Fight Against Plastic Pollution?” and an X Space discussion held on April 12th, 2024.
These forums were designed to reflect on the outcomes of the previous INC-3 meeting and to consolidate the demands and positions of Ugandan youth as stakeholders in the global fight against plastic pollution.
The webinar, co-organized by the GAYO Uganda, Sustainable Ocean Alliance and the National Youth Council of Uganda, aimed to enhance public awareness and drive youth engagement in policy advocacy against plastic pollution.
Key speakers, including Betty Osei Bonsu, Forbi Perise, Griffins Ochieng, Jacob Eyeru, Maulidi Mushame, Isaac Ndymuhaki, and Nirere Sadrach, emphasized the necessity of systemic changes rather than solely individual efforts. They pointed out the significant role that non-governmental organizations play in the negotiating process by providing grassroots insights and advocating for marginalized groups such as waste pickers.
The discussion underlined the need for “Just Transition” principles, which would ensure that the shift away from plastics benefits the most affected communities, emphasizing empowerment and recognition of local communities and waste pickers.
The following day, the X Space event, organized by Break Free from Plastic Movement, End Plastic Pollution and other organizations including National Youth Initiative, Biovision Africa, Green Africa Youth Organization, Kollekt, and Center for Citizens Conserving Environment and Management, focused on amplifying the voices of Ugandan youth.
The youth outlined key demands such as the need for viable alternatives to single-use plastics, greater involvement in decision-making processes, and accountability from both corporations and policymakers.
Speakers like Esther Kamese, Joyce Gwokyalya and Agnes N. Cavillah advocated for a circular economy and emphasized the role of youth in spearheading sustainable solutions. They critiqued current recycling efforts as insufficient and pushed for innovative entrepreneurship that would reduce and reuse plastics effectively.
Moderated by Jemimah K. Babirye and Denise Ayareba, both events successfully highlighted the crucial role of Ugandan youth in the ongoing environmental conservation efforts and their potential impact on the forthcoming global negotiations in Ottawa Canada. The clear message was that meaningful youth engagement and systemic approaches are essential for tackling the complex issues surrounding plastic pollution.
As INC-4 approaches, the insights and demands gathered from these discussions will undoubtedly influence Uganda’s stance and contributions, aiming for a robust and inclusive Global Plastic Treaty. This reflects a growing recognition of the power of informed and organized youth movements in shaping environmental policies at both national and international levels.
The webinar and X Space provided a platform for young activists to express their views and prepare for significant participation in upcoming global discussions. The emphasis on systemic change, accountability, and youth empowerment highlighted during these events sets a hopeful tone for the future, where youth are not just participants but leaders in the fight against plastic pollution.
About The Green Africa Youth Organization, Uganda Participation at the INC 4; GAYO Uganda’s participation in the global plastic treaty is centred on formulating environmental policies that integrate youth perspectives and tackle the unique challenges of managing plastic pollution in the Global South. The Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO)’s involvement in the “Plastic Toxic Test” initiative by Mainderoo highlights our push for a strong Global Plastics Treaty that demands the elimination of harmful chemicals from plastics. We are actively organizing and engaging in side events, and workshops, and publishing policy briefs like “The Cornerstones of the Plastic Treaty and Its Implications for the Global South, and the Plastic Toxic Story” aiming to amplify these discussions on a global scale. Through efforts like the Youth Climate Council in Uganda, GAYO seeks to empower African youth to contribute significantly to environmental governance. With our “Youth and Climate Change” report bringing to light gender disparities, advocating for increased female participation in these processes is paramount for us. In addition, this space would be an opportunity to gather support to boost our initiatives like the Zero Waste Cities, Green Jobs Market, and Youth Climate Council, focusing on substantial youth involvement and promoting sustainable
