The Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme (MLW) participated in the 3rd National Youth Conference on Climate Change, held from July 23 to 25 in Lilongwe. Organized by the National Youth Network on Climate Change (NYNCC) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change, the conference brought together young leaders, government, and partners to address Malawi’s most pressing environmental challenges.

Representing MLW’s Communications and Public Engagement Department, Vincent Mkwinda and Luke Manja shared powerful stories from Blantyre and Chikwawa, demonstrating how climate change is directly affecting community health. Their presentation also highlighted the project’s innovative use of the arts to inspire youth participation in climate action.

The event provided a forum for young people to exchange ideas, showcase innovations in green skills and technology, and contribute to the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0). It was hailed as a success by Guest of Honour, Dr. Owen Chomanika, Minister of Natural Resources and Climate Change.

As a conference sponsor, MLW also supported four journalists from its Journalist in Residence programme to cover the event, giving them practical reporting experience on climate issues. The team’s contribution underscored the critical link between environmental stability and human health.