The 14th of November, 2017 technically served as the last day of the #COP23 conference for the Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network (CSAYN) delegates as most of them were scheduled to fly back to their respective countries on the 15th of November, 2017.
The #COP23 was quite an eventful period for the four delegates; Abiy Shimelis, Amanda Namayi, Elizabeth Gulugulu and Ntiokam Divine, who had to double up on multiple roles simultaneously as some members of the initial delegation were not able to join them due to visa constraints. Nonetheless, the team on the ground worked tirelessly with the able assistance of other CSAYN members who were able to give their support virtually. Credence to the adage that many hands make work light.
For the week-long duration that the CSAYN delegation was in Bonn, the team was able to participate in the various side events either as speakers, moderators and rapporteurs; in addition to doubling up as communication liaisons to ensure that the events were well represented on social media.
From left: Abiy Shimelis, Amanda Namayi and Elizabeth Gulugulu of CSAYN join Ilaria Firmian of IFAD (extreme right) in planning for the upcoming IFAD events during #COP23.
Elizabeth Gulugulu (left) and Abiy Shimelis (right) help each other set up the banner on the day of their ‘Youth Engagement in Agriculture’ side event that was held on 9th November, 2017.
Over and above the hard work, the #COP23 was a great opportunity for the delegates to visit Germany as it was a maiden visit for many of them. The time spent with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) team also fostered their relationship with each other as they were able to finally meet in person and share their experiences with each other.
The #COP23 event was great exposure for the team and it opened their eyes to the tangible reality of Climate Change. The major task was now to disseminate this information gathered and knowledge gained to the rest of the CSAYN members and the youth at large. Special thanks to the IFAD team for sponsoring the delegates as it was a sign of their huge trust and faith in the youth. The CSAYN fraternity endeavors to keep the fire burning and to get as many youths onto the Climate-Smart bandwagon!
From left: A Malawian delegate, Abiy Shimelis, Ntiokam Divine, Nala Mueller, Amanda Namayi, Raymond Ruyoka, Amath Pathe and Elizabeth Gulugulu posing for a picture at the Bonn bus stop after the IFAD Recipes for Change Dinner.
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy! From left: Amath Pathe of IFAD takes a selfie with the CSAYN delegation: Abiy Shimelis, Raymond Ruyoka, Nala Mueller, Amanda Namayi, Elizabeth Gulugulu and Ntiokam Divine, as they walk along the well-lit streets of Bonn City.
Say Cheese! The ladies wear their brightest smiles as they display their IFAD #Adaptation tattoos. From left: Amanda Namayi and Elizabeth Gulugulu of CSAYN with Alessia Valentini of IFAD (right).
