How Ghana is Pioneering Climate Adaptation in Urban Planning: Insights from Ghana Business News

Ghana is making strides in building climate resilience through its National Adaptation Plan (NAP). This plan is now integrated into both national and district development strategies. It ensures that climate risk data is considered during planning and budgeting processes.

Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Acting CEO of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlighted these advancements during a forum aimed at educating Members of Parliament (MPs) about climate change. This meeting focused on the NAP’s objectives and its alignment with Ghana’s development goals.

Parliamentarians from various committees, including environment and gender, attended to discuss their vital role in overseeing climate policy and mobilizing resources for the NAP. Organizations like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF) supported the event.

Prof. Klutse pointed out that Ghana is moving from planning to action, thanks to community involvement and targeted investments. The country has assessed risks and vulnerabilities in all 261 Municipal and District Assemblies, which has improved the planning process and addressed climate challenges.

Mr. Yaw Frimpong Addo, Chairman of the Environment Committee, stressed the wide-ranging impact of climate change on all economic sectors. He called for a stronger legal framework and a dedicated climate adaptation fund to support ongoing efforts.

“Adaptation is continuous,” he said, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable groups, especially women and children in rural areas.

Mr. Daniel Essey from UNEP praised Ghana for its leadership in combating climate issues, particularly in agriculture and fisheries. He noted that climate variability, like severe droughts and floods, is intensifying and threatening coastal communities.

With nearly 70% of Ghana’s population reliant on climate-sensitive sectors, Essey stated that the NAP allows for a shift towards long-term adaptation strategies instead of short-term fixes. Over the last four years, the NAP has created a gender-responsive adaptation strategy and tools to integrate climate considerations into development plans.

UNEP reaffirmed its support for the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) as they work to boost the country’s adaptability. Essey also commended the recent passage of the Environmental Protection Act (Act 1124), highlighting it as a significant step towards sustainable environmental practices.

“We believe Ghana’s NAP can set a regional standard for how to effectively combine political will, technical planning, and community involvement to achieve climate resilience,” he added.

This focused effort showcases Ghana’s commitment to tackling climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for its citizens. The ongoing dialogue among government officials and the community is crucial for maintaining momentum and adapting to changing environmental conditions.

For more details on Ghana’s climate strategies, refer to the resources provided by the United Nations Environment Programme and local governmental reports.

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