By Cynthia Masibo
Worth Noting:
- Dr. Gibson Lesmore, Director of Programs at the AACC, delivered a stirring rebuke against complacency, asserting that the preservation of habitats is a moral imperative. He decried the deceptive language used to perpetuate fossil fuel dependency and called for unwavering solidarity in the face of climate crisis.
- GreenFaith Executive Director Rev. Fletcher Harper condemned the exploitation of Africa’s resources by global corporations, declaring it morally reprehensible. He championed the campaign for clean, accessible energy and demanded an immediate halt to new fossil fuel projects.
In a fervent call to action, faith communities from across Africa convened at the All African Council of Churches (AACC) premises in Nairobi to denounce the perils of fossil fuel extraction and advocate for sustainable energy solutions. The occasion marked the launch of the GreenFaith-Africa office, a pivotal moment in the continent’s fight against environmental degradation and social injustice.
Meryne Warah, the Global Director for Advocacy at GreenFaith, set the tone by highlighting the catastrophic consequences of the fossil fuels industry on Africa’s people and environment. Emphasizing the abundance of renewable energy sources available, she urged faith leaders to confront the powers behind destructive extractive practices.
Representatives from indigenous communities, women, and youth across Ghana, Nigeria, Congo, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) shared harrowing accounts of the devastation wrought by fossil fuel projects. Videos depicting the aftermath of oil spills, land displacement, and cultural disruption underscored the urgency of the situation.
Rev. Dr. Gibson Lesmore, Director of Programs at the AACC, delivered a stirring rebuke against complacency, asserting that the preservation of habitats is a moral imperative. He decried the deceptive language used to perpetuate fossil fuel dependency and called for unwavering solidarity in the face of climate crisis.
GreenFaith Executive Director Rev. Fletcher Harper condemned the exploitation of Africa’s resources by global corporations, declaring it morally reprehensible. He championed the campaign for clean, accessible energy and demanded an immediate halt to new fossil fuel projects.
In a show of unity, representatives from diverse faith backgrounds stressed the intrinsic connection between spirituality and environmental stewardship. Hindu council member Sujarta Kotamraju urged for the protection of Mother Earth, while Muslim leader Salim Bayani emphasized the shared responsibility to safeguard the environment as ordained in Holy Scriptures.
Indigenous voices, represented by Elija Toirai, emphasized the importance of indigenous knowledge in mitigating climate change and called for greater inclusion in decision-making processes.
Sabina Chege, Secretary of the Kenya Women of Faith, highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and called for their increased involvement in climate justice efforts.
Ezekiel Chibeze, Executive Director of the Strategic Youth Network for Development in Ghana, underscored the pivotal role of youth in driving climate education and innovative solutions.
GreenFaith-Africa, now operational in 12 African countries, aims to mobilize faith communities to oppose new fossil fuel projects and advocate for universal access to clean energy and green jobs. The organization’s campaign against the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) serves as a testament to its commitment to environmental justice and sustainability.
As the voices of faith and conscience rise in unison, the launch of GreenFaith-Africa heralds a new era of collective action and hope for a greener, more equitable future on the African continent.
Mt Kenya Times