Youth Activist Profile: Leah Nemugerwa

Leah Namugerwa is a 19-year-old Ugandan environmental activist who has become a prominent figure in the fight against climate change. Born and raised in Kampala, Uganda, Leah became interested in environmental issues at a young age. She saw firsthand the effects of climate change on her community, such as droughts, floods, and rising temperatures, which impacted food security and health.

In 2018, at the age of 15, Leah became an environmental activist after joining a climate march in Kampala. She began to speak out about the urgent need for action to address climate change, particularly in developing countries like Uganda. She has since become a leading voice in the global youth climate movement, speaking at conferences and events around the world, including the United Nations Climate Action Summit.

Leah has been particularly focused on issues related to deforestation and air pollution. Uganda has one of the highest rates of deforestation in the world, with an estimated 200,000 hectares of forest lost each year. Leah has been campaigning for more sustainable land use practices and greater protection for Uganda's forests, which are critical for regulating the local climate and supporting biodiversity.

In addition, Uganda's cities suffer from high levels of air pollution, which can have serious health consequences. Leah has been advocating for more investment in public transportation and cleaner energy sources to reduce air pollution and improve public health.

Despite her young age, Leah has faced significant opposition from government officials and others who view her activism as a threat. She has been harassed, threatened, and even arrested for her activism. However, she remains undeterred and continues to speak out about the urgent need for action to address the climate crisis.

Leah's activism has had a significant impact in Uganda and beyond. She has inspired many other young people to get involved in the climate movement and has helped to elevate the voices of those most impacted by climate change. Her work is a reminder of the power of young people to effect change and the urgent need for action to address the climate crisis.

Sources:

https://www.africanews.com/2021/04/22/16-year-old-climate-activist-on-mission-to-replant-trees-in-uganda// https://www.akinamamawaafrika.org/leah-namugerwa/