The international conference titled “My Country in the Face of Climate Change”, held in Moroni from December 4 to 7, brought together key voices committed to environmental protection across Africa.
Among the most impactful interventions was that of Honorable Yaovi Agbegnigan, journalist, international cooperation consultant, and diplomat, who delivered a powerful call for urgent and collective climate action.
During his address, Agbegnigan painted a clear picture of the growing climate crisis across the African continent, while placing special emphasis on the decisive role of Comorian youth in shaping a sustainable future.
Africa on the Frontline of Climate Change
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat. In Africa, it is visible, it is felt, and it is often painful,” he stated at the beginning of his speech. He cited prolonged droughts, destructive floods, disrupted farming seasons, and coastal erosion as undeniable evidence of the crisis.
He also denounced what he described as a deep climate injustice, stressing that Africa, despite contributing very little to global greenhouse gas emissions, continues to suffer some of the most severe consequences.
According to him, climate change now threatens food security, public health, economic stability, and even social peace.
A Clear Message to the Youth of the Comoros
Turning his focus to the Comorian context, Agbegnigan delivered a strong message to the younger generation, urging them to take ownership of the environmental struggle.
As an island nation, the Comoros is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and climate-related disasters.
“You stand at the heart of this battle. You must not inherit a dying land, but a living one. To innovate, to raise awareness, and to invest in green solutions is no longer optional it is essential,” he declared.
He also called on political leaders, institutions, and development partners to move beyond speeches and commit to bold, long-term climate policies.
Practical Solutions Within Reach
Rejecting despair and inaction, Agbegnigan highlighted several practical and achievable measures: tree planting, the expansion of solar energy, responsible waste management, protection of water resources, and the promotion of environmental education.
“This fight belongs to everyone — in our markets, schools, neighborhoods, homes, and places of worship. No one is too small to make a difference,” he emphasized.
Choosing the Future Today
In his closing remarks, the Honorable speaker framed the climate challenge as a choice between awareness and indifference, protection and destruction, legacy and regret. His final message resonated strongly with the audience:
“Protecting the environment means protecting humanity. Protecting nature means protecting the future.”
Through this powerful intervention in Moroni, Yaovi Agbegnigan successfully connected global climate challenges with local responsibility, placing Comorian youth at the center of Africa’s climate resilience and sustainable development efforts.