Supporting youth leadership on air quality in Cameroon

The Healthy Lungs for Life (HLfL) grant supported the Association for the Promotion of Youth Leadership, Advocacy and Volunteerism Cameroon (APYLAV) to strengthen youth involvement in global action on air pollution and lung health.

Air pollution is one of the world’s leading causes of early death. Young people in rapidly developing regions, including many parts of Africa, are especially affected due to increasing urbanisation, traffic emissions, and limited access to clean energy. APYLAV works to ensure that these young voices are not only represented but actively shaping solutions.

With support from the HLfL grant, APYLAV covered the travel costs for youth delegates to attend the 2nd WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health in Cartagena, Colombia. This opportunity allowed young leaders from Cameroon to participate directly in global discussions, share their experiences of local air-quality challenges, and highlight the urgent need for action in low- and middle-income countries.

During the conference, the delegates took part in sessions on health impacts, clean energy transitions, air-quality monitoring, and community engagement. They also connected with other youth and civil-society groups, building networks that will support future advocacy efforts at home.

On returning to Cameroon, the delegates are using what they learned to raise awareness among local communities, engage policymakers and inspire more young people to get involved in protecting lung health.

A full report will be available for readers who would like to explore the conference experience and APYLAV’s next steps in more detail.