On the 6 th of June 2026 More than 65 Christian youth from different denominations gathered in Juba to launch the Climate Youth Ecumenical Summit (Climate YES) South Sudan, marking the beginning of a nationwide faith-based movement dedicated to climate advocacy, environmental stewardship, and climate justice.

The launch brought together young leaders, church representatives, and civil society actors united by a common concern over the increasing impacts of climate change in South Sudan, including floods, droughts, heatwaves, and displacement. As part of the global Climate YES, the movement seeks to empower young people to become effective advocates for climate action while promoting community resilience and sustainable environmental practices.

Opening the event, Rev. Francis Philip Lado called on young people to embrace their God-given responsibility of caring for creation. Drawing from Genesis 2:15, he reminded participants that environmental stewardship is a sacred duty entrusted to humanity. He challenged youth to become ambassadors of environmental responsibility within their churches, families, and communities, emphasizing that faith and action must go hand in
hand in addressing the climate crisis.

The Chairperson of Climate YES South Sudan, Mr. Kenyi Emmanuel Dube, highlighted the urgent need for organized youth engagement in climate advocacy. He noted that recurring floods, prolonged droughts, and rising temperatures continue to threaten livelihoods and ecosystems across the country. “Climate YES was established to unite and empower young people to become advocates for climate justice and environmental protection,” Kenyi said. “The future of our country depends on the actions we take today to build resilience and safeguard our environment.”

During the event participants were equipped with knowledge on climate governance and South Sudan’s National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) this helped young people align their actions with the national adaptation programs of action (NAPA). Through interactive discussions and group exercises, participants identified climate-related challenges affecting their communities, analyzed root causes, and developed practical advocacy and mitigation strategies. The workshop reinforced the message that young people are not merely victims of climate change but powerful agents of change
capable of influencing policies and transforming communities.

Delivering a powerful reflection, Sr. Karina of the Laudato Si’ South Sudan Chapter challenged participants to adopt a deeper understanding of care for creation. She emphasized that environmental stewardship begins with loving ourselves and others before extending that love to nature. Using the example of an elderly man planting a mango tree whose fruits he may never live to enjoy, Sr. Karina encouraged participants to undertake acts of conservation and restoration even when the benefits may only be realized by future generations. Her message underscored that caring for creation is both a moral responsibility and and expression of faith.

The Coordinator of Climate YES South Sudan, Mr. Paul Yokoju, highlighted the devastating effects of climate change on communities, particularly through floods, droughts, and extreme heat. He stressed that these impacts continue to disrupt livelihoods, education, and public health, making climate action an urgent priority. “Young people must rise to the challenge and become champions of climate action,” Yokoju said. “Through advocacy, awareness, and community engagement, we can help build a more resilient and sustainable South Sudan.”