ADAPT Challenges: Empowering Cape Verdean Youth for a Sustainable Future

Climate challenges and the urgent need to adapt are increasingly evident in Cape Verde. Increasing aridification, rising sea levels and extreme weather events such as droughts and storms pose serious threats to the country's sustainable development. However, Cape Verdean youth, with their energy, creativity and vision of the future, represent a fundamental driving force for creating innovative solutions and implementing resilient adaptation measures. It is in this context that the "ADAPT Challenge" proposal arises, a programme focused on empowering and enabling young people to face the consequences of climate change.

This project aims to create a collaborative environment where young people from all over the archipelago can develop concrete ideas and projects that address the specific climate challenges of each island. The "ADAPT Challenge" will be structured in several phases, starting with an awareness-raising and mobilisation phase. At this stage, information sessions, workshops and talks will be organised in schools, universities and local communities. The aim is to raise awareness about climate change, its impacts on Cape Verde and the importance of adaptation. Experts in various fields will be invited, from sustainable agriculture and water management to renewable energies and sustainable tourism, to share their knowledge and inspire the young participants.

The second phase of the project will focus on developing ideas and creating projects. Practical workshops, brainstorming sessions and mentoring will be organised to support young people in designing and drawing up innovative proposals. The focus will be on identifying solutions adapted to local realities, which can be implemented in a practical way and have a positive impact on communities. Interdisciplinary approaches will be encouraged, fostering collaboration between young people with different profiles and areas of expertise.

In the third phase, the best proposals will be selected and will receive financial and technical support for their implementation. This support may include funding for the purchase of equipment and materials, access to expert advice and the opportunity to take part in training and exchange programmes. The aim is to turn young people's ideas into concrete projects with a real impact on the ground. The selected projects will be accompanied by mentors and evaluated periodically, guaranteeing their sustainability and long-term success.

The "ADAPT Challenge" recognises the importance of community involvement. Throughout the project, civil society organisations, local businesses and public authorities will be involved. The participation of these actors is crucial to ensure the viability and sustainability of the projects, as well as to promote their dissemination and replicability in other communities. We believe that collaboration between all stakeholders is fundamental to building a resilient and sustainable future for Cape Verde.

In addition, the project will have a strong communication and dissemination component. A website and social media platforms will be created to publicise the project, its results and the success stories of the young participants. Public events and conferences will be organised to publicise the innovative solutions developed and to promote dialogue on climate change and adaptation in Cape Verde.

With the "ADAPT Challenge", we aim not only to empower young people to face climate challenges, but also to create a new generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and agents of change. We want to inspire young people to be creative, resilient and actively contribute to building a better future for Cape Verde. We believe that with this project we are investing in the country's future and taking a significant step towards sustainable development that is resistant to climate change.

Deadline for submitting applications: 04 October 2025

To apply, please go to the following link: https://youthadapt.africa/challenge/apply