Vanessa Nakate is an activist campaigning against the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, which has already displaced thousands of people.
She came to Pope Francis' General Audience with other activists from Uganda to share their message and receive papal support for environmental protection.
DIANA NABIRUMA
Africa Institute for Energy Governance (AFIEGO)
Vatican officials would be a big and powerful voice, that would be able to sensitize, to speak the truth, so that we all work together to protect God's creation in Uganda, East Africa, and elsewhere.
The group of activists met the Pope during his Audience and shared their goal of protecting local communities from projects that could harm their surrounding ecosystems. A theme that is very close to Pope Francis' heart.
VANESSA NAKATE
Fridays for Future
Well I think that the Pope has the heart for the young people and for the, you know, the youth climate movement and for the environment in general and those who are being impacted the most. But we know that we have the full support of the Church.
For Nakate and the Ugandan activists, meeting with the Pope was the next step in spreading awareness of their mission to protect the environment.
VANESSA NAKATE
Fridays for Future
We are now seeking the support of spiritual leaders because in the end we are protecting God's creation.
After meeting the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, the activists can continue on their mission in service of God's creation.
KG