The Climate and Health Forum 2025 convened civil society organisations (CSOs), women leaders, young people,
community health workers (CHWs), researchers, and development partners for a timely dialogue on community-led
responses to climate and health challenges.
Held under the theme, “Women, Youth and Community Health Workers: Driving Equitable
and Inclusive Actions for a Sustainable Future,” the forum created a platform for frontline actors
to share practical experiences and engage in a high-level panel discussion on policy and financing for
community solutions in climate and health response.
The discussions underscored a central message: action is essential for climate resilience, and women, youth, and CHWs are already leading that work.
Mr. Nelson Francis
Community Health Worker from Kyerwa District
"I educate the community on proper ways of conserving the environment." He mobilises fellow CHWs to plant fruit trees around health facilities.
Ms. Maria Daudi
Programme Manger, WORF
"Recycling is currently a business which enables youth to generate income." Plastic waste transformed into durable construction blocks.
Dr. Faraja Chiwanga
Director of Medical Services, Muhimbili National Hospital
"The health angle can be used as a powerful tool for climate change advocacy." Climate and health cannot be addressed separately.
Dr. Joseph Komwihangiro
Country Director, Pathfinder International
"Challenges in the community are integrated." Household-centred models drive sustainable, equitable climate resilience.
The question-and-answer session reflected strong interest in implementation challenges and sustainability.
Topics raised included barriers in the recycling industry, context-specific identification of climate-smart behaviours,
geopolitical narratives around climate action, training approaches for women and youth in recycling, and the links between
climate change, mental health, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
On recycling, Ms. Maria Daudi identified key constraints including
regulatory complications, limited machinery, and low public awareness. She also explained
that WORF works with local government authorities and trains women and youth (18-35 years) with attention to
occupational safety during waste collection and recycling processes.
On context-specific climate-smart behaviours, Dr. Joseph Komwihangiro emphasised that solutions differ by geography and community livelihoods, giving an example from pastoral communities where traditional practices can also support environmental conservation.
On climate change and health impacts, Dr. Faraja Chiwanga referenced the Hanang landslide disaster in 2023, noting the mental health burden associated with climate-related disasters, including anxiety and trauma following loss of life, homes, and essential infrastructure.
Regarding sustainability, Dr. Joseph noted that climate-smart behaviour programmes are more likely to be sustained when embedded in government systems and linked to financing mechanisms.
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
The IOM representative highlighted efforts to support mental health and psychosocial support in border communities during disasters.
Save the Children Tanzania
Dr. Victor Minja noted that climate change is also a child rights crisis and shared psychosocial support provided to children affected by the Manyara landslide.
