By Albert Allotey
Accra, March 20, GNA – The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) in collaboration with Bloomberg Philanthropies and key international partners, has rolled out the second phase of the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF).
The global initiative is designed to empower young people aged 15 to 24 to take meaningful action against climate change.
The phase two with additional $100,000 is expected to scale up the impact of community-driven climate solutions while supporting youth-led climate projects across the metropolis.
Mr Douglas N.K. Annoful, the Coordinating Director of the AMA speaking at the launch emphasised the urgency of addressing climate change, which he described as one of the most pressing challenges of modern times.
He highlighted the effects of climate change, including unpredictable weather patterns and rising sea levels, which were being felt globally.
“The impacts of climate change transcend borders, cultures, and generations. From unpredictable weather patterns to rising sea levels, the consequences of inaction are dire,” Mr. Annoful said adding “We must take bold steps to mitigate these effects and protect our environment.”
He said the Youth Climate Action Fund was a recognition of the vital role young people played in combating climate change.
“The creativity, innovation, and determination of our youth are essential in driving the solutions we need to combat this crisis,” he stated.
He added that in line with Accra’s Climate Action Plan, the launch of the second phase of the fund was a pivotal step in engaging youth in climate action.
He said Bloomberg Philanthropies in April 2024 launched the global initiative to provide funding and technical assistance to 100 mayors, including Accra, to activate youth-led solutions.
He said under Phase one of the fund, each participating city, including Accra, received $50,000 to support micro-grants for youth-driven climate projects and announced that Phase two extended that support with a budget increase to $100,000 to amplify youth-led efforts across communities.
“Climate change knows no boundaries, and neither should our efforts to combat it,” Mr. Annoful remarked, stating that “We must work hand in hand with local communities, governments, and organizations to create a unified front against this global challenge,” he said.
He urged young people to take advantage of the funding, emphasising that their ideas – whether focused on renewable energy, conservation, or climate education – were valuable.
“This is your opportunity to transform your passion into action,” he said.
In addition to environmental concerns, Mr. Annoful highlighted the importance of social justice in climate action.
“The impacts of climate change disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. We are responsible for ensuring that our solutions are inclusive and equitable,” he added.
Okyeame Kwame, a Veteran Musician and Climate Advocate, who also spoke at the launch, highlighted Africa’s role in the climate crisis.
He added that while the continent contributed less than five per cent to global carbon emissions, it remained one of the hardest hit by climate change, experiencing rising sea levels, droughts, and extreme weather events.
“Africa may not be the biggest polluter, but we cannot ignore our responsibility. With 57 per cent of the continent’s population made up of young people, the power to innovate and drive change is in our hands,” he said and urged young Ghanaians to seize the opportunities in climate innovation.
GNA
GRB