December 2024 | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — UNCCD COP16

In early December 2024 the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) convened its 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Representing the Water Youth Network, Treasurer Dr Sinafekesh Girma joined delegates from around the world to ensure that young professionals had a clear, influential voice in negotiations addressing desertification and drought.

Throughout the week Dr Girma actively participated in plenaries, working sessions, and informal dialogues, advocating for youth-driven, solution-oriented approaches to land and water management. Reflecting on her experience, she wrote: “Representing the voice of youth at #COP16 was an absolute privilege. I am very grateful to the support of the Water Youth Network to actively participate in negotiations, discussions, and decision-making processes aimed at mitigating desertification.”

A landmark moment of COP16 was Saudi Arabia’s launch of the Global Riyadh Partnership for Drought Resilience, accompanied by substantial financial commitments and a focus on flexible, action-based programmes unconstrained by traditional donor models. Dr Girma welcomed this development, noting that it underscores the importance of innovative financing and inclusive collaboration in tackling drought and land degradation.

The Water Youth Network celebrates Dr Sinafekesh Girma’s dedication and thanks all COP16 participants who shared their knowledge and experience. Her work in Riyadh exemplifies the impact that committed young professionals can have on global efforts to build a more resilient, land-secure future.