BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – The Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs officially launched the second cohort of the Eswatini Climate Change Youth Parliament (2025–2027) on 11 December 2025 at Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Mbabane.
The programme is designed to empower young people to lead climate action and influence national policies for a sustainable and resilient future.
The launch brought together members of the first cohort, representatives from youth groups including the UNICEF Youth Advisory Board, and development partners who have supported the initiative since its inception.
Honourable Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane emphasized the transformative role of youth in addressing climate change. “Our cohort is youthful, and that is why the Ministry created this Parliament, to harness the energy and leadership of young people in building a sustainable Eswatini,” she said. The Minister thanked partners, particularly UNICEF, for their support and encouraged the youth to embrace their role as climate champions.
The first cohort of the Climate Change Youth Parliament left a strong legacy. Among their key achievements was hosting the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY), which brought together diverse voices from across Eswatini. This conference produced the country’s first National Youth Statement on Climate Change, reflecting the concerns, aspirations, and proposed solutions of young people. Members of the first cohort also played a pivotal role in climate awareness campaigns, policy dialogues, and represented Eswatini at regional and international climate platforms.
Participation in the Parliament has helped young people grow as advocates, thinkers, and leaders. “We built a strong foundation for youth-led climate action and demonstrated that young people are both willing and capable of shaping the national climate agenda,” said one first cohort member.
The second cohort will benefit from mentorship, skills development, and tools to translate their ideas into tangible climate action. The Director of the Department of Meteorology highlighted the importance of collaboration among youth structures, noting that coordinated efforts are essential to achieving meaningful climate impact at national and regional levels.
Speaking on behalf of UNICEF, Chiara Pierotti reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting youth leadership. “The new Parliament’s vision is to see young people at the forefront of driving inclusive, innovative, and sustainable climate action for a resilient Eswatini. Our task is to help youth move from advocacy to action,” she said.
Minister Mkhonta-Simelane encouraged the new members to use the platform responsibly, boldly, and with purpose. “Your participation, your ideas, and your leadership will determine the success of this initiative. May this journey inspire you, challenge you, and transform you into the climate champions our nation needs,” she said before officially inaugurating the second cohort.
Through this initiative, Eswatini continues to invest in the next generation of climate leaders, fostering a safer, greener, and more resilient future for all.
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