UNICEF Madagascar appoints a ‘youth climate advocate’ to put young people at the heart of climate decisions
The climate crisis is also a crisis of children's rights. UNICEF's youth climate advocate will use her voice and influence to raise awareness and advocate for climate action and children's rights.
Antananarivo, 7 March 2025 – Tania Jeannie Lemainty, 24, an activist in the fight against climate change, has been officially appointed UNICEF Madagascar Youth Climate Advocate. The collaboration agreement between Tania and Christine Jaulmes, the UNICEF Madagascar Representative, was signed on Monday, 3 March, and officially announced during the COP 29 debriefing by young policy trackers on 7 March.
A commitment for the climate and children
Tania Jeannie Lemainty is an active member of Move Up Madagascar, a youth platform committed to bringing about lasting change to the Malagasy community. Move Up Madagascar is based on volunteering and civic engagement, and aims to raise awareness and take action in the face of climate issues, a key issue for the future of Malagasy children. Indeed, they suffer the direct and indirect effects of climate change on their health, education and well-being, making urgent action essential to protect them and guarantee their rights.
Originally from Majunga, Tania has established herself as an inspiring figure in climate advocacy among young people, thanks to her involvement in environmental initiatives. Her appointment as UNICEF Climate Advocate aims to strengthen youth participation in the fight against climate change.
In this role, her mission will be to:
- Raise awareness and mobilize young people around climate issues and their impact on children's rights.
- Represent young people on environmental issues in high-profile events at the local, regional and international levels.
- Contribute to UNICEF Madagascar's communication and advocacy campaigns.
- Encourage youth participation, particularly on World Children's Day and at other events related to climate change.
A key role in youth engagement: active participation in COP 29
Tania's participation in COP 29 reinforced her belief in the impact young people have in global climate discussions. As she proudly mentioned during the debriefing on the participation of Malagasy youth in COP 29: “Climate change is a collective struggle that doesn’t exclude anyone. It is not about dividing ourselves into camps, but it is about including everyone in the decisions and joining forces, hand in hand – organizations, businesses, young people and governments.” These words reflect her commitment to mobilize all actors around a common and inclusive climate action.
And as Christine Jaulmes, UNICEF Representative in Madagascar, points out: “We are delighted to have Tania as our Youth Climate Advocate. She is an inspiring figure who will carry the aspirations of Malagasy children and young people for a more sustainable future.”
UNICEF Madagascar is very enthusiastic about this collaboration and reaffirms its commitment to working alongside young people to build a fairer and more sustainable world.
