Young people from across the Manzini Region have been challenged to take an active role in protecting the environment and building a greener, more sustainable Eswatini.
The call was made during the Manzini Regional Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) Eswatini 2026, hosted by the Matsapha Town Council, where young people gathered to learn, exchange ideas and discuss the effects of climate change on their communities and future.
Matsapha Town Council Environmental Health and Community Services Manager Mancoba Zwane said environmental protection should go beyond periodic clean-up campaigns, urging young people to embrace practical initiatives that create lasting change. 
Zwane said while clean-up campaigns remained important in maintaining clean communities, the council also encouraged young people to plant trees, grow vegetables and establish gardens.
He said such activities could help nurture a culture of environmental responsibility among younger generations while contributing to cleaner and greener communities.
The conference brought together youth organisations and initiatives including Hlumisa Youth Climate Network, Eco Harmony Eswatini, Eswatini Youth in Water, Youth Sustainable Development Centre (YSDC), Bayane High School Eco-Club and the Climate Change Youth Parliament (CCYP).
Participants were exposed to interactive learning activities, including tests, practical sessions and discussions designed to strengthen their understanding of climate change and environmental protection.
The organisers said the conference was intended to provide young people with a platform to express their views, exchange knowledge and explore practical ways of contributing to climate action.
The gathering also highlighted the importance of involving young people in environmental discussions, particularly as they are among those who will experience the long-term effects of decisions made today.
Through initiatives such as LCOY, young people are encouraged to move from being observers of climate challenges to becoming active participants in finding solutions.
The Matsapha Town Council said empowering young people with knowledge and opportunities to act could help build communities where environmental protection becomes part of everyday life.
With youth organisations continuing to champion climate awareness, the conference provided a platform for young people to strengthen collaboration and identify practical actions that can contribute to a healthier environment.
