EcoClub 360, in partnership with Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) and the Embassy of Denmark in Ghana, has engaged key stakeholders across sectors in the Shai-Osudoku District of Greater Accra Region in a dialogue, ensuring an inclusive, collective, and bottom-up climate action approach to the initiative, “Amplifying Climate Solutions for Sustainable Development and Democratic Governance.”
The project aims to highlight actions by key actors addressing climate change challenges for informed decision-making as Ghana approaches the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
Theme: “Amplifying Climate Solutions for Sustainable Development and Democratic Governance: The Role of Stakeholders in Advancing a Green Future”
In her introductory remarks, the Founder and Executive Director of EcoClub 360, Ms. Patience Ahiabor, stated that “climate change is contributing to food insecurity, health challenges, and disruption in education and social cohesion, which can heighten tension in the country as Ghana goes to the polls in December 2024.”
She emphasized the need for collaboration to fight climate change, adding that the inter-sectoral dialogue aims to highlight climate interventions necessary for fostering a resilient and sustainable future in the Shai-Osudoku District.
This was followed by a presentation from Mr. George Opare Asare, a member of the EcoClub 360 Steering Committee. He educated participants on the connections between climate change, sustainable development, and democratic governance, noting that climate disruptions can lead to social unrest, conflict, community breakdown, and death.
He outlined challenges faced by the government, including a lack of coordinated policies, limited stakeholder engagement, and inadequate funding. Mr. Asare commended EcoClub 360 for addressing the key issue of limited stakeholder involvement.
He stressed the urgent need for climate action and called for implementing climate adaptation and mitigation measures such as renewable energy, efficient use of energy, waste reduction, water management systems, and climate-smart agriculture. Mr. Asare also underlined the importance of climate governance and international cooperation, highlighting policies like the Paris Agreement and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). He urged participants to use digital platforms to advocate for climate action.
Participants engaged in a stimulating discussion, revealing the lack of local-level climate policies and grassroots engagement. Mr. Derick Sarfo-Yiadom from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explained the ongoing National Adaptation Plan process, encouraging district-level contributions.
The District Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Nana Asante Boateng, voiced concerns over deforestation, particularly the destruction of the Dodowa Forest. He urged authorities to review permitting processes and promote tree-planting initiatives.
Mr. Kofi Osei Addy from Asaseyaa Foundation emphasized the need for behavioral change toward environmental protection. He commended the District Director of Education, Mrs. Harriet Lomotey, for engaging students in climate awareness activities. The Forestry Commission also supported EcoClub 360’s initiatives to raise awareness and plant trees among students.
The District Director of Health, Rev. Ebenezer Asiamah, warned of health risks caused by deforestation, such as the outbreak of diseases like mpox. He also highlighted food scarcity and livelihood loss due to industrial and residential activities in the district, while discussing the harmful effects of agrochemicals on local farmers.
Mr. Sarfoh-Danquah from the Strategic Youth Network for Development (SYND) emphasized the importance of tailoring climate education to different demographic groups, ensuring inclusive climate awareness. He reiterated the value of accurate information in climate advocacy.
Participants: The event saw the participation of the Forestry Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Shai-Osudoku District Assembly, Ghana Education Service, Asutsuare Senior High Technical School, Ghana Health Service, Strategic Youth Network for Development (SYND), Kasa Initiative Ghana, Renewable Energy for Communities Coalition, Blue Ice Water Company, Zoomlion Ghana Ltd., and the media, among others.
