Q&A: South Sudan’s climate warrior Kenyi Emmanuel at COP29 to inspire hope

Kenyi Emmanuel Dube, a passionate South Sudanese climate activist, works with the Episcopal Church of South Sudan’s Environmental Network and Climate Yes, a youth-led ecumenical summit that represents multiple organizations dedicated to addressing the climate crisis. As he heads to the Conference of the Parties (COP29) at the UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, as an observer, he takes with him the hopes and concerns of South Sudan’s younger generation that seeks to hold governments accountable while inspiring grassroots action.

Radio Tamazuj caught up with and sounded him out about his work which highlights the urgent impact of climate change across South Sudan, particularly the unprecedented patterns of catastrophic flooding and extreme heat. Kenyi speaks about his advocacy for the role of youth and faith-based communities in the fight for climate justice. We delve into his journey, challenges, and aspirations as he stands at the forefront of climate activism in South Sudan.

Below are edited excerpts:

Q: Can you share some of the personal experiences that motivated you to become a climate activist in South Sudan?

A: I did not study environmental science and I am not a climate scientist, but something compelled me; the rapid changes happening around us, especially the extreme flooding in areas that never experienced it before, made me question what was going on. I started researching and realized that climate change is driving these changes. It is a reality we cannot ignore. Just this March, for instance, schools closed due to extreme heat—a first for Juba. South Sudan is already a hot country, but things are worsening. People’s crops fail as rains suddenly stop, and these changes pushed me to become a climate advocate.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a young climate activist in South Sudan, and what keeps you motivated to continue?

A: One of the biggest challenges is the lack of understanding about climate change. Many people here think climate change is something that only affects the Western world. There is a notion that because industrialized countries cause most of the pollution, they should suffer the consequences, but that is not the case. We are already seeing and feeling the effects here. Educating people on this has been a challenge, but it is also what keeps me going because knowledge is essential for change.

Q: As you attend COP29 as an observer, what are your top priorities for the summit?

A: My priority is understanding South Sudan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and commitments. At COP, each country commits to actions that keep global temperatures below 1.5°C. I want to know what our government is pledging to do because young people in South Sudan are already facing the consequences of climate change. They are the ones supporting communities affected by floods and droughts, yet they have little access to the necessary resources. The funds allocated for climate adaptation need to be accessible to these young people so they can continue their work effectively.

Q: What specific actions would you like South Sudan’s national negotiators to commit to at COP?

A: We need to reduce carbon emissions, especially given that much of our country relies on generators for power, including even the national parliament. Renewable energy, such as solar, is an option we should be embracing. The government could lower taxes on solar panels, making them more affordable for the population. This would make it easier for South Sudanese to access clean energy and would significantly reduce our carbon footprint.

Q: You mentioned earlier that young people are at the forefront of climate action in South Sudan but face challenges. Could you share some of the initiatives they are spearheading?

A: Yes, young people are mobilizing in flood-prone areas, often without any external funding. They are building dykes and water channels to protect homes and farms. These efforts prevent families from being displaced and ensure that people can still cultivate their land. Additionally, youth are educating communities on climate change and adaptation strategies. They are working to increase local understanding of climate change impacts and the steps communities can take to protect themselves.

Q: How has climate change impacted your community, and what kind of support do you think is needed for those affected?

A: Climate change has displaced many people, forcing them to leave their homes due to severe flooding. They are now facing shelter shortages, health issues, and a lack of access to essential services. In some areas, people are completely cut off due to flooding, with no communication networks or power. If young people had better access to resources, they could do more to help those affected. Development partners also need to increase their support for these communities. According to UN OCHA, over a million people in South Sudan have been affected, with many permanently displaced.

Q: What measures would you like to see implemented to address these issues?

A: We need to designate higher ground areas for communities at risk of flooding. Essential facilities like hospitals should also be situated on higher ground so they remain accessible. In addition, there should be long-term relocation plans for people living in flood-prone regions, allowing them to move to safer areas.

Q: I understand you emphasize the role of Christian responsibility in environmental stewardship. Can you explain how you are working with religious communities to encourage positive climate action?

A: Yes, I am a Christian and I believe we must protect God’s creation. In Genesis 2:15, we are commanded to care for the Earth. God created plants, animals, and nature before creating humans to look after them, but today, people are cutting down trees without considering the consequences. As Christians, we have a mandate to be good stewards. The Episcopal Church of South Sudan is raising awareness in churches, schools, and communities, and I hope other faith institutions will do the same. Christians must take this responsibility seriously—it is part of our faith.

Q: How can faith-based communities play a larger role in advocating for climate justice in South Sudan and beyond?

A: Clergy hold significant influence here, when pastors speak, people listen. When they address climate issues and encourage environmental responsibility, the message resonates with their congregations. The Episcopal Church is already doing great work by raising awareness, and I hope other faith groups will join in. Clergy can be powerful voices in promoting mitigation and adaptation efforts.

Q: What message would you like to send to the Government of South Sudanese regarding its role in climate adaptation and mitigation?

A: The government must uphold the commitments they have made to reduce emissions and support climate action. We have a responsibility to cut down on carbon, and that includes regulating pollution from vehicles and generators. The government should also ensure young people have access to resources. Our youth are capable and eager to help, but they lack the support they need to scale their initiatives. The future is theirs, and if we do not act now, the challenges will only worsen.

Q: How do you plan to hold South Sudan accountable for the commitments it makes at COP29 and beyond?

A: My observer badge at COP29 gives me direct access to the negotiations, so, I will know first-hand what commitments our government makes. I will use that information to advocate for accountability when I return. It is not just for me—it is for all young people and everyone in South Sudan. We will work to ensure that our leaders follow through on their promises.

Q: What are your long-term goals for climate action in South Sudan, and what do you see as the role of the youth in this movement?

A: My long-term goal is to hold organizations and companies accountable for their carbon emissions. If they are releasing carbon, they should be contributing to tree-planting or other offset initiatives. My vision is for South Sudan to entirely shift to renewable energy and eliminate harmful emissions and young people have a crucial role in this. They should act now because this fight is for their future. Together, we can build a more resilient South Sudan.

Q: As someone who deeply cares about future generations, what would you say to South Sudanese youth who want to make a difference in the fight against climate change?

A: The time to act is now—not tomorrow, not next month. We, young people, need to unite and secure our future. If we do not, things will get worse, and we might not have the capacity to adapt to the coming changes. It is up to us to build a sustainable future for ourselves and the generations to come.