HWPL and Volunteer HUB Host Dialogue:

Promoting Climate Change Activism, Volunteerism and Peacebuilding through Understanding the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in Botswana

On July 18, HWPL and Volunteer Hub non-profit organizations in Botswana held an event under the theme of “Dialogue (Promoting Climate Change Activism, Volunteerism and Peacebuilding Through the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals).” A total of 35 residents attended the event, which was held online and offline, showing their passion for peace in Botswana.

In Botswana, which is located in Africa, many people are struggling with an unstable food supply and difficulties in their daily lives. This is because in recent years, climate change in Botswana has led to increased intensity of droughts due to shorter rainy seasons. Volunteer Hub, which received much attention for its GBV-themed event last year, held the event in collaboration with HWPL. The event included a discussion and plans for a future campaign.

The event was divided into two parts. The first half of the launch involved presentations from three speakers who spoke about the objective of the launch and why there is a need to focus on climate change, peace and security, as well as volunteerism. They also shared real-life experiences of people living in Botswana.

The second part of the launch was interactive. Audience participants received scenarios related to the three focus areas and understood the impact they could have on one’s day-to-day life.

“Lack of education on climate change in the education system is something that needs change all the way from primary school,” said Christopher Seagateng, Pan-African Youth Council’s Deputy Secretary General. “Even though we practice recycling, it is meaningless if we do not understand the importance properly. It is necessary to educate young people why it is important to respond to climate change. It is also important to educate and inform young people about the right ways to cope with climate change and apply them to real life as a culture.”

Following this event, HWPL and HUB plan to carry out additional linked programs in the near future.