Accra: Mr. Issifu Seidu, Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, has announced plans to localize climate change issues to help build resilience and sustain livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable populations. The government intends to collaborate with relevant bodies to conduct advocacy, educate the public and stakeholders, and build the capacity of pertinent agencies to address the climate crisis.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Seidu made these remarks while welcoming a four-member team from the University of Ghana, led by Professor Gordon A. Awandare, the Pro Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic and Students Affairs, and Professor Chris Gordon, an Environmental Scientist with expertise in coastal, wetland, and freshwater systems. The Minister emphasized that climate change affects sensitive aspects of the economy but lacks widespread awareness, necessitating educational efforts to alter behavior patterns contributing to environmental degradation.
Mr. Seidu highlighted that climate change is intrinsically linked to human behavior and that many people are unaware of the environmental impacts of their actions. At the sub-regional level, the new ministry aims to establish a climate change and sustainability hub to develop a think tank, advocate, conduct impactful research, and implement projects for climate intervention.
Referring to a World Bank report, Mr. Seidu warned that without urgent climate action, at least one million more people could fall into poverty due to climate shocks. By 2050, income for poor households could decrease by up to 40 percent.
Professor Gordon noted that ongoing studies show an increase in night and daytime temperatures, particularly affecting informal settlements. He expressed concern over the temperature spikes, which present significant challenges for residents dealing with substandard housing and inadequate ventilation. Urgent action is needed to address these challenges, build resilience, and ensure survival.
The study revealed issues such as insufficient building spacing, inappropriate design, and materials, as well as a lack of proper ventilation, leaving structures ill-equipped to withstand climatic pressures. Professor Gordon reported that heat stress is impairing the ability of informal sector workers, especially laborers, to work long hours, and it is also affecting their ability to sleep at night. He emphasized that heat stress is contributing to mental health issues and causing stress.
