Climate Connection
Awareness
Opportunities
Action
Background
Marjon Castelijns: Bridging Continents for Climate Awareness and Action!
From 2009 to 2017, Marjon Castelijns lived and thrived in Uganda for 8 years, working on an array of development projects across sub-Saharan Africa. During this time, she built extensive knowledge and experience that left an permanent mark on her professional and personal life.
Since her return to the Netherlands, Marjon dedicated over 6 years to Energy Transition, gathering new invaluable insights and expertise. But in 2023 it was time to prepare for a thrilling new adventure!
Marjon is combining her experience in East Africa with her newfound climate and energy transition knowledge, coupled with her “changemaker” and “networking” skills. Her mission: to create lasting positive impacts on Climate Awareness and Action.
Starting mid September 2024, Marjon, along with her then 9-year old daughter Ella, embarked on an inspiring trip through Eastern Africa. This journey turned out to be blend of exploration, reconnection, and meaningful impact.
Together with one volunteer, they are driving in a 100% electrified Land Rover Defender 110, that can be charged on solar, and are facilitating masterclasses at schools and organisations along the route.
Purpose of Climate Connection foundation
Urgency of climate awareness & action in Africa
Africa: minimal carbon footprint, large climate impact
With nearly 20% of the world’s population today, Africa accounts for less than 3% of the world’s energy‐related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to date and has the lowest emissions per capita of any region. Simultaneously, Africa is suffering disproportionately from climate change, a topic raised in Climate Justice efforts.
Africa’s Untapped Renewable Energy Potential, with limited access to electricity
While Africa has an estimated 40% of the world’s renewable energy resources, and only 2% ($60 billion) of US$3 trillion renewable energy investments in the last decade have come to Africa. At the same time. 43% of its total population (600 million people) still lack access to electricity, most of them in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Nature based Climate action, Boost Sustainable Development.
The conservation, rehabilitation and climate-informed management of biodiversity and ecosystems increases will advance progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
Climate Education: A Key Solution for Climate Action
Due to the information and awareness gap, Climate Education is considered one of the key solutions to accelerate Climate Action for mitigation and adaptation.
Travel Plan
Kenya
September 2024 - February
Urganda
March - May 2025
Rwanda
June 2025
Uganda
October 2025
Kenya
November 2025
Tanzania
November - December 2025