Climate change: Youth aware but feel helpless

Locals walk through a flooded road in Mbaruk, Gilgil, Nakuru County on August 14, 2025.

Photo credit: Boniface Mwangi | Nation Media Group

Young Africans are more aware and more worried about climate change than any other demographic, yet many say they feel powerless, anxious and even fatalistic about their ability to change anything. And one reason looms large: a deep lack of trust in government.

This is according to a new multi-country study that surveyed public attitudes on climate change across Africa.