Madat Balochistan, a women-led indigenous organization, successfully hosted the first-ever climate camp in Balochistan, held in Ormara from 26th August to 27th August 2024.
Co-founder and lead organizer of the event, 17-year-old Nafeesa Baloch said, “I represented Balochistan at COP27, COP28, SB58, and the UN Water Conference, and at this groundbreaking event with about 50-70 attendees aimed to raise awareness about climate change in the region.”
Balochistan, located on the frontline of the global climate crisis, is bearing the brunt of climate change’s devastating impacts. Rising temperatures, droughts, and extreme weather events are affecting the region’s ecosystems, livelihoods, and communities.
Alongside Madat Balochistan, youth organizations from all over the country participated and helped organize the two-day event. Booni Environmental Academy from the Gilgit Baltistan region and Youth Climate Activists Pakistan presented various sessions on climate adaptation and resilience.
Hania Imran, another youth climate activist and organizer, shared, “Balochistan’s youth are on the frontlines of the climate crisis, and productive climate education camps that share resources and opportunities with them are a step in the right direction.”
Didar Ali, an organizer from Gilgit, said, “The aim of the camp was to empower local communities to take action against climate change and foster global leadership.”
The event included a tree plantation session, and 95% of participants reported a better understanding of climate change and its impacts and 80% expressed a willingness to take action in their local communities.
By amplifying the voices of Balochistan’s climate activists, Madat Balochistan, Youth Climate Activists Pakistan, and Booni Environmental Academy are bringing attention to the region’s overlooked climate crisis, demanding action, and inspiring a new generation of climate leaders.
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