Climate change continues to pose significant environmental and social challenges to communities, requiring collective action from different sectors of society. Faith communities have a particularly important role to play because of their strong community networks, trusted leadership and ability to mobilize people around issues affecting their wellbeing and environment. Recognizing this potential, Climate YES Zambia brought together church leaders, youth representatives and partner churches for an engagement focused on strengthening faith-based action on climate change. Held on 18th September 2026 at St Peter’s Anglican Church Hall, the engagement was conducted under the Communities for Change Project, a Climate YES Zambia initiative aimed at mobilising young people of faith and strengthening ecumenical collaboration for climate action.

The engagement introduced participants to the vision, mission and objectives of Climate YES and created a platform for dialogue on climate change, climate justice and environmental stewardship. Participants explored how churches can use their community structures to raise awareness, promote responsible environmental practices and encourage meaningful youth participation in climate action. The programme included presentations, interactive discussions, energisers and a question- and-answer session. Participants also discussed the roles and responsibilities of faith leaders, churches, young people and Climate YES in supporting community-based climate initiatives.

A major highlight of the engagement was the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between Climate YES Zambia and participating partner churches. The signing formalised the partnership and demonstrated a shared commitment to working together towards environmental stewardship, climate awareness and community resilience.

The engagement concluded with reflections and commitments towards continued collaboration. Climate YES Zambia and participating churches expressed their commitment to strengthening awareness, sharing opportunities and resources, and supporting practical climate and environmental initiatives within communities. The engagement marked an important step towards building a stronger faith-based network for climate action in Zambia, demonstrating the potential of churches and young people of faith to contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability and climate justice.