South Sudanese to contest in climate innovative competition

By Simon Deng

Two young South Sudanese innovators are participating in the regional innovative solution challenge seeking to address the effects of climate change.

The competition taking place in Kigali, Rwanda also seeks to provide solutions to sexual and reproductive health services in flood affected areas across the region, according to Kidani Abraha, the Program Advisor for the United Nations Population Funds (UNFPA).

He said during the closing the climate challenge contest on Tuesday, that UNFPA will be facilitating the travel of the two South Sudanese to participate in the regional competition, that will provides a platform for South Sudanese youth to showcase their talent and contribute to climate action on at the regional level.

“For those who won the contest, you are taking responsibility, the 5000 U.S dollar award is 5000 challenges, it takes you time to think through and outsmart others, make sure the ideas will impact, you are going to represent South Sudan on regional competition,” said Abraha.

Nelson Kwaje, the representative of Scenius Hub an organization that mentors youth, said engagement on climate change and sexual and reproductive health and rights is aimed at raising awareness about innovative solutions developed by young innovators in South Sudan.

“The competition empowers young people to create innovative, gender-responsive solutions that build community resilience, as well as addressing critical issues related to climate change,” said Kwaje.

On September 23, 2024, 16 teams of young innovators participated in intensive mentorship sessions, which saw Gaso Grace and Dona Elia Dazanga emerge winners.

The duo will represent South Sudan at the upcoming regional competition which will commence on November 7, in Kigali.