Ghana’s $25bn agreement must deliver real benefits to vulnerable communities – CCCFS

The Centre for Climate Change and Food Security (CCCFS) has welcomed Ghana’s $25 billion agreement. This agreement is part of the Ghana Green Guard Initiative. CCCFS urges the government to ensure benefits reach vulnerable communities affected by climate change.

The initiative is a partnership between Ghana’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), CarbonPura, and the Private Sector Participation in Health (PSPH). It aims to tackle environmental challenges while generating 305 million carbon credits. The project expects to bring in $10.4 billion over 25 years.

Dr. Alexander Nti Kani, Deputy Director at CCCFS, emphasized that economic gains are not enough alone. There must be meaningful impacts on local communities.

Ghana faces severe climate vulnerability. Extreme weather threatens agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods. Each year, flooding affects about 45,000 people. Additionally, 13% of the population struggles with drought-related issues. Economic losses from droughts reached $95 million in 2020 and could rise to $325 million by 2050 if unchecked.

CCCFS calls on the government for a clear roadmap for the initiative. This roadmap should include specific actions, timelines, transparency measures, and governance frameworks.

The organization highlights the need for financial oversight and independent audits. Regular public disclosures on fund allocation and project progress are essential for accountability.

Authorities should prioritize investments in climate adaptation areas like agriculture and water management. Reforestation efforts and combating illegal mining (galamsey) are also crucial as they harm water bodies and farmland.

CCCFS insists that vulnerable groups—especially women, children, and rural communities—must benefit significantly from this initiative.

Furthermore, CCCFS urges parliamentarians, civil society organizations, local leaders, and media to hold stakeholders accountable. Financial resources from carbon monetization must improve lives affected by climate change.

“The Ghana Green Guard Initiative is an opportunity for Ghana to lead in global climate action,” it stated. Now is the time to turn commitments into action for sustainable financing.