Walvis Bay Junior Mayor Fisabo Mapalo says the youth's voice on climate change should be heard, as they hold the future of the planet and the next generation.

Mapalo said this during the Young Citizens Green Economy Conference held at Walvis Bay.

The conference, which aimed at empowering the youth on climate-related matters, was hosted by the Walvis Bay Leos Club, one of the financial beneficiaries of the Walvis Bay Youth Climate Action Fund.

The fund is a component of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund, which gives 100 mayors worldwide financial and technical support to engage young people between the ages of 15 and 24 in the planning, creation, and management of urgent climate solutions in their communities.

Each country received $1 million to distribute as microgrants to fund youth-led climate initiatives, of which Walvis Bay was one of two African beneficiaries.

A Walvis Bay Leos Club member, Mapalo, said young people need to be aware of the issues around climate change if they want to change the situation.

"I urge you all to take full advantage of this conference. Each moment is an opportunity to learn and grow. Also, remember you are not alone in this journey. Each of you carries the spirit of change and the potential to impact lives. You have the power to inspire others to join in this vital movement."

This conference, Mapalo said, was not merely a platform for discussion but an incubator of ideas, collaboration, and action.

She added that climate change is a multifaceted challenge that requires innovative thinking and various approaches.

The junior mayor further said integrated education is essential because it transcends traditional learning and connects concepts across disciplines.

Activities at the conference included panel discussions, sharing perspectives on climate change, exploration of sustainable practices, innovative engineering solutions, and the art of advocacy.