The closeout of the Africa Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) project marked more than the end of a programme, it marked the strength of a movement that continues to grow through the people it has empowered. The closeout event created space for reflection, shared learning, and renewed commitment to climate justice rooted in inclusion.

Over the course of the project, AACJ supported advocacy, storytelling, and movement-building efforts that elevated grassroots voices and strengthened climate justice networks across communities. At the closeout, these efforts were brought together through a reflective talk show that revisited lessons learned, challenges faced, and the collective progress made in advancing people-centred climate action.

GIFSEP’s contribution to the AACJ journey was formally recognized during the event, a moment that affirmed the organisation’s role in amplifying community voices and advancing inclusive climate advocacy. Particularly meaningful was the recognition of two GIFSEP right-holders, a person with disability and a smallholder farmer…whose lived experiences and leadership embodied the core values of the AACJ project. Their recognition served as a powerful reminder that climate justice is most impactful when it centres those most affected.

As the AACJ chapter formally closed, its legacy lives on through strengthened networks, empowered advocates, and a deeper commitment to inclusive climate action. For GIFSEP, the closeout reaffirmed a guiding principle that will continue to shape our work: climate justice must be built with communities, not just for them.