Julius Dady Kirungi, from Kigali, Rwanda, is a 19 year old Planeteer Alliance Wisdom Council member, who has played a key role in expanding Planeteer Alliance’s presence in Rwanda. He is also the co-founder of Planeteer Vanguard and Earth Care Alliance, organizations that provide essential climate education for youth in rural schools across Kigali, Rwanda.
Representing Planeteer Alliance, Julius was invited to attend the Africa Climate Summit 2 (ACS2) in Addis Adaba, Ethiopia. Read below for reflections on his time at the summit!
Walking through the halls, attending panels, and engaging with other delegates made it clear that Africa is no longer just facing climate challenges – it is becoming a hub of solutions, innovation, and resilient leadership, with young people at the very heart of this transformation
Can you provide an overview of the Africa Climate Summit 2 and its function?
Attending the Africa Climate Summit 2 (ACS2) in Addis Ababa from September 8 to September 10, 2025 was an unforgettable experience. The summit, themed “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development,” brought together African leaders, global innovators, and youth delegates to shape Africa’s climate future.
The purpose of ACS2 was to unite Africa around a common voice on climate finance, innovation, and justice. It aimed to elevate African-led solutions, showcase innovations, and call for stronger commitments from global partners to invest in the continent’s future.
What was your perspective on the key issues that were discussed?
I was able to contribute to discussions on renewable energy, e-mobility, and climate finance. At the UNICEF Pavilion, I shared how the Planeteer Alliance empowers African youth to lead climate projects, highlighting campaigns on clean energy and waste management. At the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) Pavilion, I asked how technology can be made inclusive and scalable for rural and low-income communities. My unique perspective came from representing grassroots Planeteers who are actively working in local contexts where climate challenges are most severe.
What was the most memorable part of the experience?
Aside from connecting with high-level CEOs and leaders of fascinating climate organizations, the most unforgettable moment for me was delivering a short speech representing Planeteer Alliance at the UNICEF Pavilion.
Standing in front of global delegates, sharing our youth-led projects, and advocating for youth voices felt both exciting and slightly terrifying – I may have briefly panicked thinking, “Hope they don’t ask me to solve climate change on the spot!”
But the energy of the room and the warm responses reminded me that youth voices truly matter, and that even a few minutes on stage can inspire meaningful connections and action.
What were the results of the Summit? What were the outcomes?
The summit concluded with the launch of the Africa Climate Innovation Compact and the African Climate Facility, pledging to mobilize $50 billion annually and support 1,000 African climate solutions by 2030.
This marked a significant step toward shifting from dependency on aid to strategic investment in Africa’s own solutions. For me, the intended goal of amplifying African voices – particularly youth voices – was reached, though much work remains in ensuring that finance reaches the grassroots level.
At first, it was intimidating to be among government leaders, CEOs, and international delegates, and I struggled to find a clear way to step into the conversation.
Were there any challenges you faced at ACS2, and how did you overcome them?
One of the main challenges I faced during the summit was finding a clear way to contribute and fully express my ideas in such a large and high-level space.
At first, it was intimidating to be among government leaders, CEOs, and international delegates, and I struggled to find a clear way to step into the conversation.
But as the time went on, I managed to find opportunities to step in – asking questions at breakout sessions, sharing the work of Planeteer Alliance, and even delivering a short speech at the UNICEF Pavilion! These moments reminded me that youth voices do matter, and that even in big spaces, speaking up can create meaningful impact.
How did attending ACS2 inspire you in your journey as a youth climate leader?
The most encouraging part of ACS2 was witnessing youth leadership in action. Seeing young people take charge of climate projects reminded me why Planeteer Alliance exists– to empower youth to turn their ideas into real solutions.
The dedication, creativity, and courage of these young leaders reinforced my belief that when Planeteers and youth across Africa are supported and amplified, they can drive transformative change in their communities and beyond.