Great Carbon Valley CEO on opportunities for African youth in the green economy

Africa is poised for a rapid green industrial transformation, leveraging its youthful population, vast natural resources, and renewable energy potential. By 2033, the continent aims to generate around 30 million jobs in the green economy, a lofty goal that holds immense promise for the future. In a recent interview with Bilha Ndirangu, the CEO of Great Carbon Valley, the discussion revolved around creating an innovative ecosystem to harness the opportunities presented by climate change. Ndirangu emphasized the need to shift the conversation from focusing solely on the challenges to exploring the vast opportunities that Africa can offer in solving the climate crisis while simultaneously creating livelihoods and other prospects for its people. The key theme of the interview highlighted the essential role that Africa can play in providing solutions to climate change and the tremendous advantages the continent possesses in terms of renewable energy potential and natural resources. Ndirangu emphasized the importance of reimagining the conversation around climate change and viewing it as a means to not only mitigate environmental challenges but also foster sustainable economic growth and development. One of the key points discussed in the interview was the necessity of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal energy. Africa boasts an abundance of these resources, yet they remain largely untapped, presenting a unique opportunity for the continent to build green grids and harness renewable energy for its development. Additionally, the focus on initiatives such as tree planting, forest conservation, and carbon capture technologies underscores Africa's potential in offering innovative solutions to combat climate change. Another crucial aspect highlighted was the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders, including the public and private sectors, to create a conducive ecosystem for green industrial transformation. Ndirangu stressed the significance of implementing the right policies to attract investments in the green sector and ensure regulatory clarity for businesses operating in carbon markets. Moreover, she underscored the need for skills development to meet the demands of the emerging green economy, emphasizing the importance of equipping the youth with relevant skills and training. Organizations like Jacob's Ladder Africa are actively engaged in workforce preparation to bridge the skill gap and prepare young people for opportunities in the green economy. Industry players also play a pivotal role in shaping policies and skill development strategies, ensuring alignment with the needs and requirements of the private sector. By fostering collaboration and innovation across various sectors, Africa can unlock its potential as a key player in the global green economy, paving the way for sustainable development and job creation.