African youth powering innovations in clean energy to combat global warming

The devastating effects of climate change have sparked the interest of the youth in developing innovations to address the harsh impacts of global warming on economies worldwide. CNBC Africa recently interviewed Janet Zagah, the Co-Founder of Burasolutions Academy, to discuss the critical issues surrounding climate change and energy access in Africa. Zagah highlighted three key challenges hindering progress in the clean energy sector: prioritization of pressing issues, lack of skills, and limited access to financing. African countries often prioritize immediate concerns such as food security and employment over long-term sustainability, making it difficult to focus on climate change and renewable energy initiatives. Moreover, the continent lacks specialized universities and training programs for skills in renewable energy, carbon accounting, and carbon capture and storage, further exacerbating the skill gap in the clean energy sector. Additionally, the absence of accessible financing options due to the high-risk environment in many African countries poses a significant barrier to implementing sustainable energy solutions. Zagah emphasized the crucial role of organizations like Burasolutions Academy in bridging the skills gap by providing training in renewable energy to young people. As an Ashton Award winner, Zagah expressed optimism about expanding their impact by training more individuals in clean energy and solar PV installations, aiming to reach 5,000 young people within the next decade. The organization also plans to extend its operations beyond Nigeria to other African markets in East and South Africa. Zagah underscored the importance of empowering African youth through green skills development to enhance energy access across the continent. She outlined four key support mechanisms for youth innovation in clean energy: training, mentorship, platforms for showcasing work, and access to resources. Training programs and university courses tailored to addressing climate challenges, along with mentorship opportunities, are critical for nurturing young talent in the clean energy sector. Zagah emphasized the need for platforms like CNBC Africa to amplify the voices of youth innovators and provide broader networking opportunities. Access to resources, particularly financing, is essential for scaling up the impact of youth-led initiatives in clean energy. Despite Africa's relatively low contribution to climate change, the continent bears the brunt of its consequences. Zagah highlighted the urgency of not only mitigating climate change but also building resilience to adapt to its effects, urging for increased efforts and resources to support adaptation initiatives in Africa. She emphasized the importance of equipping African countries with the necessary tools to withstand the impacts of climate change. Overall, Zagah's insights shed light on the pivotal role of African youth in driving innovations in clean energy to combat climate change and foster sustainable development across the continent.