Youth leaders in NENA unite to address land degradation and climate challenges

Riyadh, At the NENA Youth Breakfast, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), youth leaders from the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region gathered to amplify their voices in addressing agrifood system challenges, land degradation, and climate-related issues. Held during the sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16), the gathering highlighted the critical role of youth as drivers of change in shaping resilient and sustainable food systems. 

With more than 60 percent of the region’s population below the age of 35, young men and women are central to both the present and future of agrifood system transformation. To fulfil their potential, young people must be empowered and equipped with the needed skills, resources and services. 

The event was attended by key figures, including HRH Princess Basma Bint Ali of Jordan, FAO Goodwill Ambassador for the Near East and North Africa, Mr Abdulhakim Elwaer, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa, and Mr Lifeng Li, Director of FAO's Land and Water Division.  

Opening with a breakfast session, the event created an inclusive space for open dialogue between youth leaders and high-level FAO representatives. The discussions focused on pressing issues such as sustainable land management, community resilience, and innovative solutions to climate change challenges in one of the world’s most environmentally vulnerable regions. 

Participants explored three key themes critical to the region’s agrifood systems, such as: including youth in decision-making and policy framework design; investing in youth-led science and innovation; and mobilizing resources for youth-driven solutions. 

These themes align with the youth statement on sustainable agrifood systems, a collaborative initiative by the attending youth leaders to be presented during UNCCD COP16 plenary sessions. With ecologically sustainable agrifood systems recognized as an emerging issue at this year's UNCCD COP, the youth groups actively ensured their voices were heard and considered.  

Youth perspectives driving solutions 

During the event, HRH Princess Basma Bint Ali emphasized the transformative potential of youth, stating, “young leaders bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, making them indispensable in the fight against land degradation and climate challenges.” 

Mr Elwaer highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between youth and policymakers, adding, “engaging youth is essential for the sustainable transformation of agrifood systems, especially in a region facing unprecedented environmental challenges.” 

Youth leaders shared their experiences and discussed innovative projects addressing issues such as desertification, soil degradation, and water scarcity. Young leaders from Egypt shared a case study of bridging academic institutions with young farmers to strengthen their capacities in sustainable water management. Their contributions underscored the importance of empowering young voices in decision-making and equipping them with the tools to implement impactful solutions.  

Strengthening youth engagement in policy and practice 

The networking session provided an opportunity for youth leaders to engage directly with high-level guests in interactive discussions at thematic stations. This dynamic format enabled youth to present their perspectives and receive valuable feedback on their initiatives, fostering a stronger connection between grassroots efforts and multilateral policymaking. Young leaders commented on the value of such spaces for making connections and building partnerships across the region.  

Reflecting on the experience, Kenza Benmoussa, Gender and Climate Change Representative for the WeCaN Network from Morrocco commented "Meeting with Princess Basma bint Ali and FAO officers was an inspiring reminder of the power of collaboration in amplifying women's voices in dryland regions. It highlighted the critical role of youth and women in driving innovative, gender-responsive solutions for sustainable agri-food systems and effective climate action."  

Looking ahead 

The NENA youth breakfast is part of FAO’s broader efforts to champion youth engagement in sustainable agrifood systems through platforms like the World Food Forum (WFF). The WFF continues to serve as a catalyst for integrating youth-led solutions into global food governance, addressing the urgent need for resilience and sustainability in the face of climate challenges. 

As the NENA region struggles with escalating environmental pressures, the voices and actions of its youth are proving to be pivotal. Events like the NENA youth breakfast showcase the vital role of young leaders in shaping a more sustainable future for the region and beyond.