Parliament is today hosting the first East African Children’s Summit on Climate, bringing together children from all eight East African Community (EAC) partner states to discuss climate change and their role in protecting the environment.

The summit is being held under the theme, “Children Leading East African Integration: Climate, Peace, Prosperity,” with the aim of providing children with a platform to contribute to regional climate discussions, policy development and decision-making.

The child-led initiative seeks to strengthen children’s participation in shaping climate policies while promoting regional cooperation among East African countries in addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change.

Among the key objectives of the summit is the development of the Kampala Children’s EAC Declaration on Climate, which is expected to articulate children’s concerns, priorities and recommendations on climate action across the region.

Participants will also advocate for the establishment of a permanent East African Community Children’s Advocacy Platform to provide a sustained avenue for children to engage with policymakers and influence regional decisions on issues affecting their future.

As part of the environmental conservation efforts, the summit will also see the planting of 5,000 trees in Kassanda District. The initiative is intended to promote tree planting, restore the environment and encourage children to take an active role in combating climate change.

The summit marks an opportunity for young people across the East African region to share ideas, strengthen cross-border collaboration and contribute to environmental protection efforts.

Through the discussions and planned activities, the initiative seeks to position children as active participants in climate action and regional integration, recognising the importance of their voices in shaping a sustainable future for East Africa.

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