Credits : Centre for Citizens Conserving Environment & Management (CECIC) Uganda.
In response to the compelling words of Laudate Deum 16, which cautions, “We are now unable to halt the enormous damage we have caused. We barely have time to prevent even more tragic damage” (LD 16), Laudato Si’ animators in Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are steadfastly responding to Pope Francis’ call by actively engaging their communities in the pursuit of a clean energy future.
Under the powerful collective actions of “Power Up for Climate Solutions,” Laudato Si’ animators are rallying their communities for climate action, emphasizing renewable energy solutions. Edwin Mumbeere from Uganda eloquently encapsulates this collective effort, stating, “Powering up isn’t just about energy; it’s a collective journey to illuminate the world with sustainable solutions, sparking change, and empowering a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.”
Edwin Mumbeere’s call for collective action in Uganda holds particular significance given the environmental challenges the region faces, notably the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project. This venture, driven by the pursuit of fossil fuels, poses a significant threat to the environment and exacerbates the climate crisis. As Uganda grapples with the implications of such projects, Edwin’s plea resonates as a powerful reminder of the pressing need to shift our focus towards sustainable solutions.
This collective journey, however, faces a glaring challenge – the lack of political will to prioritize the well-being of people and the planet over the allure of profit-driven ventures. Baraka Chris, based in Goma, DRC, highlights the detrimental impact of enormous profits from fossil fuels on the current climate crisis. He emphasizes the urgent need to redirect our focus towards investing in renewable energy for a sustainable and equitable future.
A Laudato Si’ animator holds a sign in swahili that asks “to whom do we belong?” during a creative performance calling for an end to environmental pollution. | Credits : Mouvement Laudato Si’ Goma
Baraka stresses, “This is all the more reason why the Laudato Si’ Movement in Goma has come together and joined the global action of Global Power Up. We stand united with other activists and organizations, aiming to send a resounding message to world leaders: invest in renewable energy, foster low-carbon electricity, and ensure a better future and sustainable development for this and future generations.”
The urgency of this call becomes even more evident as Tanzania and Uganda forge deals for gas exploration, contributing not only to carbon emissions but also to local injustices. Baraka passionately advocates for a paradigm shift, urging a collective acknowledgment of the abundant potential offered by renewable energy as a means for a just transition.
As the world gears up for COP 28, Anold Katto, an animator with Partnership for Green Future (PGF) Tanzania, underscores the critical importance of Loss & Damage Finance, emphasizing, “It is neither charity nor a development fund. It is a matter of justice and responsibilities.” Anold’s concern stems from the failure of the Transitional Committee to draft recommendations for the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund ahead of COP 28, signaling a reluctance from developed nations to prioritize justice within the World Bank after years of extraction and plunder.
To support this crucial cause, we invite you to sign the COP 28 petition, urging the presidency to accelerate the transition to clean energy while ensuring justice for all. Your signature will echo the collective plea for global leaders to prioritize environmentally responsible practices.
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Together, let us illuminate a path towards a sustainable and just energy future, guided by the holy spirit.