LAGOS/Nigeria: In a rallying cry for grassroots involvement in climate change advocacy, Abimboka Abikoye, the Founder of Revamp Rave Network and Convener of Coastal Rural Community Conference on Climate Change, emphasized the pivotal role of local engagement during the recent conference held in Lagos.
Speaking at the Coastal Rural Community Conference over the weekend, Abikoye urged governmental bodies and corporate entities to integrate community perspectives into the formulation of climate change policies across Africa.
Highlighting the significance of leveraging indigenous knowledge and insights, Abikoye stressed the necessity of community-driven approaches in devising effective strategies for mitigating climate change impacts. She underscored the importance of crafting policies that resonate with the unique challenges faced by residents in coastal regions, asserting that such tailored approaches are crucial for sustainability.
The conference, which aimed to galvanize communities towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa, focused on fostering collaboration and forging partnerships to drive positive transformations within rural areas.
Abikoye affirmed, “By fostering dialogue and cooperation, the conference sought to lay the groundwork for initiatives that enhance the livelihoods of individuals residing in coastal areas.”
Throughout the event, speakers underscored the urgency of addressing climate change and advocated for the adoption of best practices, particularly in fishing activities. They emphasized the need for heightened awareness and education on climate issues, urging governments, NGOs, and individuals to intensify efforts in disseminating climate change literacy at the grassroots level.
Moreover, discussions centered on strengthening community capacity for climate adaptation and mitigation, with a focus on enhancing ocean governance.
Attended by over 500 participants from five major coastal rural communities in Lagos state—namely Ikorodu, Mosafejo, Badagry, Epe, and Agoro—the second edition of the Revamp Rave Network Coastal Rural Community Conference on Climate Change was marked by a vibrant atmosphere. Dance performances, musical interludes, and group photo sessions symbolized the unity and shared purpose among attendees, reflecting the determination to address climate challenges at the local level.
