As one of the 24 esteemed parliamentarians from 23 countries gathered in Bonn, Germany, Honorable Abdoulie Njai participated in the Global Changemaker Academy for Parliamentarians (G-CAP) 2024. This five-day leadership academy, represents a significant step forward in global efforts toward sustainable land management and climate action.
Hosted at the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) on the UN Campus, the academy’s purpose is to empower legislators worldwide with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle pressing environmental challenges. The event is a collaborative initiative between the G20 Global Land Initiative (GLI) and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Its primary aim is to address the growing crisis of land degradation, which affects 30% of the Earth’s land area, and to equip us with the skills needed to legislate effective national policies.
The program features expert-led masterclasses and leadership labs from global leaders such as Ibrahim Thiaw, Executive Secretary of the UNCCD, and Dr. Muralee Thummarukudy, Director of the G20 Global Land Initiative. These sessions provide invaluable insights into the intersection of land management and sustainable development. A key highlight has been the powerful “United for Land” masterclass, which underscores the importance of land restoration as a critical component in combating climate change.
In addition to the learning sessions, G-CAP 2024 also offers unparalleled networking opportunities and practical experiences. Notably, participants will visit Eschweiler and its adjacent open-cast mine, a site exemplifying eco-social transformation. This hands-on experience illustrates the real-world impact of innovative land restoration practices.
ย As parliamentarians, we are at the forefront of legislative efforts to conserve and restore land, and this academy strengthens our resolve and capability to drive meaningful change in our respective countries.
The knowledge and experiences gained here in Bonn will undoubtedly enhance our ability to advocate for sustainable land management within our national frameworks. It is a privilege to be part of this transformative journey, contributing to a future where land is not only preserved but also leveraged as a pivotal resource in the global fight against climate.
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