In a world with rising sea levels, scorching temperatures, devastating fires and more pollution than we can track, we can’t afford to look away. Science and justice demand that we do more than simply address the symptoms of the climate breakdown. We need to build solutions that will not only keep fossil fuels in the ground but improve the lives of billions of people.

On September 20th – 27th, there will be the first all-ages global climate strike. People will walk out of their jobs — some will plant trees, others will join protests. The targets will be as diverse as the geography: in different parts of the planet, people will be sitting down in front of pipelines; demanding that their institutions divest fossil fuel stocks; urging UN nations to increase their carbon-cutting commitments; calling for carbon taxes; insisting on a Green New Deal. And here in Africa:

In Abuja, Nigeria: People will take to the streets to demand that policymakers make greater strides in environmental policies and laws.

In Cape Town, South Africa: Learners from around 50 schools across the city will protest the South African Government’s lack of action on the climate emergency. 

In Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo: local communities, civil society organisations and young people will mobilize around climate issues to inform the population about the climate emergency and call on President Felix Tshisekedi to adhere to national and international conservation laws, protect farmers and prioritize investment in renewable energy.

In Johannesburg, South Africa: There will be a peaceful march to call for an acceleration of a just transition towards a low carbon, renewable energy future. 

In Kaolack, Senegal, Action Solidaire International is organising a climate camp that will be followed by a march to call on policymakers to stop the Bargny coal-powered station from operating.

In Nairobi, Kenya, Led by thousands of workers, students and youth organizers all across the country are coming together to let their government know that they won’t stand down from their demands for a shift to 100% renewable energy.

Many more people in Africa and around the world are joining the Global Climate March to demonstrate that there is a global movement demanding real climate action. Check out the website to see if something is planned near you already – or register your own event.