How LWSC MD Educates the Ghanaian Armed Forces on Climate Change, Environmental Sustainability, and Development Strategies

The Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC), together with the Ministry of National Defense, recently held an important event for the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC). This one-day gathering focused on the theme: “Climate Change, Environment, and Development.” It was part of the African Study Tour (AST), a program designed to expose senior military officers to critical regional issues and enhance civil-military cooperation across Africa.

Over 25 Ghanaian military officials attended, including various ranks from Lieutenant Colonel to Brigadier General, alongside 10 faculty members from GAFCSC. The event was hosted at Bella Casa Hotel in Sinkor and showcased the growing ties between military forces in Ghana and Liberia.

Mohammed Ali, the Managing Director of LWSC, addressed the attendees, highlighting the interplay between climate change, environmental degradation, and national security. He thanked Ghana for its historical role in peacekeeping efforts in Liberia, emphasizing shared responsibilities in addressing climate threats across the continent.

Ali pointed out the rising impact of climate change, recalling recent floods that have left parts of Monrovia submerged during rainy seasons. He contrasted this with conditions 30 to 40 years ago when farming seasons were predictable. Today, erratic rainfall and extended wet seasons require farmers to adapt rapidly, leading to food insecurity and urban migration—a situation further straining resources in cities.

The statistics echo Ali’s concerns. Reports indicate that urban populations in Africa are soaring, with cities like Monrovia struggling to keep up. As water and sanitation systems, designed for smaller populations, buckle under current pressures, public health risks also rise dramatically. Overflows and contamination from sewage systems are becoming common, creating a cycle of crises fueled by climate change.

Ali also discussed deforestation, which is affecting Liberia’s rich biodiversity. The country’s forests, constituting about 40% of the Upper Guinea Forest, face threats from both legal and illegal logging. This destruction accelerates erosion and undermines the land’s ability to recover, posing significant risks to both the environment and local economies.

General Barimah Brako Owusu, the head of the Ghana Armed Forces delegation, expressed that this study tour allows the military officers to collaborate with experts on pressing issues such as climate change. He noted that student officers are now better equipped to apply what they learned to address these challenges back home.

“Climate change is not just an abstract concept; it directly impacts our security and well-being,” General Owusu stated, acknowledging that stakeholders must be actively involved in solutions.

The engagement reflects a growing recognition that military forces have critical roles beyond defense. They are increasingly seen as vital partners in disaster response and environmental protection efforts. This shift emphasizes the need for collaboration not only within military circles but across all sectors to create resilient communities.

The dialogues from this tour have sparked conversations on social media, with many praising the proactive stances being taken by African nations. Users have shared insights on how military training can incorporate sustainability practices and foster a deeper commitment to climate advocacy.

Through sessions like this, Africa’s militaries are not just preparing for conflict; they are evolving into champions for environmental sustainability and security. As weather patterns shift and challenges mount, the need for such initiatives will only grow more urgent.

This event serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of climate and security challenges and the importance of regional cooperation in safeguarding both our environment and our communities.

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