As temperatures soar above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in Southern Sudan. Schools are advised to close.

For Immediate Release

Laudato Youth Initiative Clubs President Responds to Extreme Heat Wave in South Sudan, urges youth and leaders in Sudan and other Countries to taking this alarming crisis as an eye opener and appeal to parents to ensure Safety precautions for Children.
In Southern Sunday according to Deng Machol in his article of March 17th, ….as a result of an extreme heat wave expected to persist for the next two weeks, the health and education ministries have advised parents to keep all children indoors, with temperatures forecasted to soar to 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit). In response to this concerning development, the Laudato Youth Initiative, a catholic youth led creation care initiative in Uganda in collaboration with John Paul Justice and Peace Center seeks it wise to emphasize two things.
Standing in solidarity with the youth in South Sudan and praying for our neighbors in their efforts to address the impact of climate change crisis because the decision to close schools due to extreme temperatures is indeed a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action.

A call to Action for all the youth and leaders, Media houses and cooperate entities to sensitize people and dive into more action. We commend the parliament of Uganda through the speaker for spearheading a tree-planting initiative as a proactive step towards combating global warming. Planting trees is a powerful and effective way to mitigate the effects of climate change and restore balance to our environment said our mentor Br. Adolf but More efforts into sensitizing our people about the need to conserve wetlands is a message that is eminent. He further emphasized that we need to consider investing in other long-term Climate Strategies and analyzing ways in which they will help us tackle climate change as a country but also on individual and Institutional levels. He believed that together, we can make a difference and create a sustainable future for generations to come. We all need to unite in the fight against climate change and work towards a greener, healthier planet for all. #TheLauddatoYouth1MillionTreePlantingDrive For God and my Country. United For Climate Action. #laudatoyouthinitiative

My point as a Laudato Youth Leader is the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of young people during this challenging time. The extreme heat wave poses significant risks to the health and safety of children, and it is crucial for parents, guardians, and caregivers to take proactive measures to ensure their protection. In light of these circumstances, the Laudato Youth Initiative urges the community to exercise vigilance and adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Keep children indoors during peak heat hours: It is advisable to limit outdoor activities especially during midday when temperatures are at their highest. Create a cool and comfortable environment within homes to minimize heat exposure.
2. Hydration and nutrition: Encourage children to drink plenty of water and consume light, refreshing meals to stay hydrated and energized. Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages.
3. Sun protection: When venturing outdoors, ensure that children are adequately protected from the sun, appropriate clothing and hats. Limit outdoor activities to early mornings or evenings, until when temperatures are cooler.
4. Educate children about heat-related illnesses: Help children understand the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and encourage them to communicate any discomfort or concern to a trusted adult.
The Laudato Youth Initiative recognizes the critical role of families, the church, schools, and communities in safeguarding the well-being of young people amidst challenging environmental conditions. We advocate for collective efforts to prioritize the safety and health of children during this unprecedented heat wave.
In partnership with our Laudato Clubs, Presence on the Media, and educational institutions that run Laudato Clubs, the Laudato Youth Initiative will continue to pray and provide support, resources, and guidance information to ensure the protection of children during this period of extreme heat. Our commitment to promoting environmental mindfulness and inspiring climate action for the welfare of young people remains steadfast, particularly in times of heightened vulnerability.
Early this year because of the urgence of the matter we started a One Million Tree Planting Drive as one of our responses to the climate Change Crisis. Please Join us in caring for our mother earth by planting trees or donating trees for planting with our Laudato Clubs.
For more information about the Laudato Youth Initiative One Million Tree Planting Drive and please visit Laudato Youth Initiative website or contact us at laudatoyouthinitiative@gmail.com
Together, let us unite in safeguarding the well-being of our youth and building resilient communities in the face of environmental challenges.
Laudato youth – United for Climate Action

Sincerely,

Sarah Kirikumwino
Laudato Clubs’ President
Laudato Youth Initiative