Join the Movement: WASCAL Champions ICCAN Advocacy This World Environment Day

WASCAL Launches Climate Change Advocacy in Accra

The West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) has kicked off its “International Climate Change Action Now” (ICCAN) campaign in Accra, coinciding with World Environment Day.

Professor Emmanuel W. Ramde, the Executive Director of WASCAL, spoke at the event about the centre’s mission to fight climate change across twelve West African nations, along with ECOWAS and Germany. WASCAL focuses on improving lives while tackling this global issue.

WASCAL collaborates with various partners, engaging in research and capacity building. It also works with universities in West Africa and Germany to provide programs in fields like climate change and green hydrogen.

The event gathered many notable figures from different sectors, all stressing the urgent need to address climate change. Professor Kofi Nyarko from the University of Cape Coast (UCC) highlighted the crucial role of Ghanaian youth. He encouraged more investment in their initiatives, saying, “We must recognize the youth as agents of change.” He argued that investing in climate education not only informs the young but also equips them to design better systems for the future.

Professor Wilson Agyare of the Graduate Studies Programme at WASCAL-KNUST delivered a lecture emphasizing that the climate crisis touches everyone, not just politicians. He called for sustainable practices like tree planting and proper waste management, urging a shift in public mindset toward sustainability.

Musician and climate advocate Okyeame Kwame also attended. A vegetarian, he spoke passionately about the importance of tree planting and reducing meat consumption. He encouraged the youth to be bold and ambitious in their climate efforts.

WASCAL’s event brought together youth groups, NGOs, and business leaders, showcasing its commitment to inclusive dialogue. Through ICCAN, WASCAL aims to unite governments, academia, and industry to lighten climate change’s impacts.

The theme, "Youth Powering Ghana’s Climate Resilience," highlighted the contributions of young Ghanaians while examining the significant challenges and solutions related to climate action today.

Recent surveys show that nearly 70% of Ghanaian youth are aware of climate issues and willing to take action. This growth in environmental awareness among the young is crucial, as experts agree that engaging and empowering youth can significantly impact climate resilience.

For more information about ongoing climate initiatives and resources, check out the United Nations Climate Change website.

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ICCAN,WASCAL,World Environment Day