Sunyani: Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have called on the nation to ensure that its vulnerable population is not left behind in the transition to a green economy.
According to Ghana News Agency, an inclusive policy that amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and groups, including the youthful population, is required to advance climate justice in the country. The CSOs, including ActionAid Ghana, Global Media Foundation (GloMeF), Citizens Watch Ghana, and the Young Urban Women, made the call at a youth forum to mark the 2025 International Youth Day (IYD) in Sunyani.
With support from the National Youth Authority, the CSOs organized the forum under the theme 'Igniting youth leadership potential through multilateral cooperation for social accountability'. The IYD, instituted by the United Nations and celebrated annually on August 12, aims to bring youth issues to the attention of governments, with this year's focus on empowering the youth to help build a better planet for all.
Mr. Kwame Afram Denkyira, the Bono, Bono East and Ahafo Regional Manager Programme Manager of the AAG, indicated that a decentralized climate adaptation effort is needed to allow vulnerable communities to design solutions based on their local realities. He emphasized that climate justice in Ghana is about more than survival; it encompasses dignity, equity, and the right to a sustainable future. As the country strides towards development, integrating justice into climate action is not just a moral obligation but a practical necessity.
Mr. Denkyira highlighted the challenges facing young people in securing decent jobs, which increase their vulnerability in society, making them susceptible to social vices, conflict, civil disorders, and violent extremism. He pointed out that young people are more likely to accept recruitment into fighting forces when they face high incidences of joblessness and urged the government to create more job opportunities for the youthful population.
In a speech read on his behalf, Mr. Joseph Addae Akwaboa, the Bono Regional Minister, stated that the government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for young people to thrive. He noted that fostering global cooperation and collaboration in all sectors demonstrates President John Dramani Mahama's commitment to creating jobs for the teeming youth to exploit their potentials.
Mr. Akwaboa announced that the government would soon roll out Cultural Villages and a Creative Arts Fund to provide financial support to the youth in establishing creative enterprises, fostering growth and sustainability in the creative sector. He commended the growing number of youth climate activists, innovators in renewable energy, and student-led environmental movements across Ghana and Africa, emphasizing the government's commitment to strengthening climate change education, investing in green jobs, and incorporating youth voices in national climate change strategies.
Mr. Raphael Godlove Ahenu, the Founder and CEO of GloMeF, a human rights and anti-corruption media advocacy organization, stressed the need to explore the possibilities of uniting the voices of young people from the Global South and Global North for action. He pointed out that this is not only to address shared global challenges but also to strengthen solidarity, equity, and innovation in tackling issues such as climate change, social injustice, digital exclusion, and democratic deficits.
Mr. Ahenu concluded by stating that the climate crisis knows no borders; however, solutions often reflect Northern narratives. He emphasized the need to co-create inclusive climate actions and champion equitable access to digital infrastructure.
