Millions across Africa and the world joined hands for Earth Hour 2026 in a powerful display of solidarity for the planet. As of today, nearly 100,000 hours have been dedicated to environmental action across the continent, reaffirming Earth Hour as a leading movement for climate action and nature conservation.
This year’s Earth Hour served as a stark reminder of Africa’s vulnerability to climate change and biodiversity loss. The past year was the hottest in recorded history, intensifying droughts, floods, and wildfires across the continent. From deforestation in Madagascar to water scarcity in Namibia, Africa faces mounting challenges that demand urgent and united action.
In response, thousands of individuals, communities, and organisations across the continent committed their time and energy to meaningful environmental activities. Whether through reforestation projects, youth-led conservation campaigns, or community clean-ups, Africa has demonstrated that every action counts in the fight for a sustainable future.
Earth Hour’s symbolic switch-off moment saw some of the world’s most iconic landmarks go dark in a show of environmental commitment. Among them was Nairobi’s Old Mutual Tower, which stood in darkness as a beacon of hope for climate resilience.
Lisa Karanja, WWF Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, said: “This Earth Hour, Africa’s voice rang loud and clear from classrooms to riverbanks. We stood united in love for our planet and in defiance of the crises threatening our future. I am deeply moved by the creativity, courage, and commitment shown by communities across the continent. This is not just a campaign; it’s a growing movement of people who believe that a better, greener future is possible and are willing to fight for it.”
Martin Kabaluapa Kapinga, WWF Regional Director for the Congo Basin, added: “Earth Hour 2025 has been a powerful reminder that even in the face of immense challenges, hope can still shine through. From the heart of the Congo Basin to every corner of Africa, people came together with a shared determination to protect what we love. Each hour given, each tree planted, each story shared are the building blocks of a future where nature and people thrive together.”
Across the continent, Earth Hour 2025 inspired a wide range of impactful initiatives:
Madagascar: A month-long reforestation and sustainability campaign launched, alongside the first-ever Earth Hour Game Festival in Antananarivo to engage youth in climate action.
Uganda: A clean up of River Rwenzori and a bamboo tree planting initiative
Namibia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Republic of Congo: Tree-planting initiatives in Kavango, Hwange, Kitenden, and Dia contributed to ecosystem restoration and protection of water sources.
Zambia: A fundraising initiative in collaboration with UNDP to mitigate human-wildlifr conflict in the KAZA region.
South Africa: Outdoor movie screenings on environmental themes were held in partnership with SANBI, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, and the City of Johannesburg.
Cameroon: A nationwide youth awareness campaign, led by Carton Rouge and supported by major broadcasters, mobilised communities to take action.
Central African Republic (CAR): A film screening, panel discussions, and press conference engaged policymakers and civil society in conservation efforts.
Gabon: A large-scale mangrove reforestation project reinforced the country’s commitment to protecting coastal ecosystems.
Tanzania: The Maasai for Nature Walkathon was launched, combining tree planting with environmental education programs for youth.
Earth Hour continues to evolve as a movement beyond the hour, inspiring long-term environmental action. The next edition will take place on Saturday, 28 March 2026, with an even stronger call for global participation.