Ghana: Protect Nature to Safeguard Livelihoods - Deputy Minister

What the report says

Stakeholders at the Africa Climate Dialogue have urged African countries to protect and restore natural ecosystems as part of efforts to address climate change and protect livelihoods, according to Ghanaian Times via AllAfrica. The virtual discussion focused on nature-based solutions for climate resilience, green growth and a just transition in Africa, and brought together policymakers, experts, academics, civil society groups and private-sector representatives to discuss how such approaches could fit into Ghana’s development plans.

Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition Richard Gyan-Mensah said forests, wetlands, mangroves and other ecosystems are central to climate action because they help absorb carbon, reduce flooding, limit coastal erosion and support fishing and farming communities. He warned that illegal mining, deforestation and pollution are damaging these systems and making it harder for communities to cope with climate impacts.

Gyan-Mensah called for investment in forest restoration, wetland protection, mangrove rehabilitation and sustainable agriculture, while stressing that climate policy should translate into practical support for communities. He also said local people should be involved in managing natural resources and given livelihood options that encourage conservation rather than depletion.

European Union Ambassador to Ghana Rune Skinnebach also urged stronger efforts to close the gap between human activity and nature, saying people and institutions need to change how they interact with the environment for the benefit of future generations.