Women, Climate Change, and the Power of Community

A blog by Catherine Kabiru, Young Expert at GHRH

The relentless downpour that drenched Kenya in March, April, and May 2023 was a stark reminder of the escalating intensity of climate change. The deluge wrought widespread devastation, claiming lives, destroying property, and displacing countless families. As a woman who bore witness to this crisis, I was compelled to take action.

The Disproportionate Impact on Women and Children

Women and children are disproportionately affected by climate change. The floods exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to resources. Many women lost their livelihoods, were burdened with caring for sick family members, and faced increased domestic workloads. Children were especially vulnerable, exposed to malnutrition, waterborne diseases, and displacement.

A Call to Action

Inspired by the resilience of the women in my community, I joined forces with fellow young women to establish "Young Women in Power." Our mission is to empower young women to become leaders in climate action and advocates for their rights. We aim to equip young women with the knowledge and skills to address climate change and advocate for their rights.

Turning Waste into Wonder

As part of our initiative, we've embarked on a project to upcycle waste materials. We collect discarded tires, rugs, and plastics to create functional and stylish furniture, such as chairs and coffee tables. This not only reduces waste but also provides opportunities for skill development and income generation.

The Power of Collective Action

Through our initiative, we've learned the power of collective action. By working together, we can overcome challenges, inspire change, and build a more sustainable future. We encourage other young women to join us in our mission to address climate change and empower women.

The Role of Women in Climate Governance

Women's participation in climate governance is crucial. Their unique perspectives, experiences, and knowledge can contribute significantly to developing effective climate policies and strategies. However, women often face barriers to participation, such as limited access to education, resources, and decision-making positions.

Empowering Women for a Sustainable Future

To address these challenges and empower women, we must:

Promote gender equality and women's empowerment: This involves challenging gender stereotypes, ensuring equal access to education, and creating opportunities for women to participate in decision-making processes.

Invest in women's leadership: Support women's leadership in climate action by providing training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Integrate gender considerations into climate policies and programs: Ensure that climate policies and programs address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of women.

Collect gender-disaggregated data: This will help us better understand the impact of climate change on women and inform targeted interventions.

A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future

By empowering women and girls, we can build more resilient communities and create a sustainable future for all. Let us unite and work together to address the challenges posed by climate change and build a better world for future generations.

About the Author:

Catherine Kabiru is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and climate action. As the co-founder of the Young Resilient Advocacy Network and the operations person for Young Women in Power, Catherine is committed to empowering young women to address climate change and build resilient communities. With a focus on education, advocacy, and community-driven initiatives, Catherine is dedicated to creating a more equitable and sustainable future