By Samuel Ofori Boateng
Kumasi April 24, GNA – Mr Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), has asked residents in the metropolis to unite in the fight against climate change.
He said it was an important responsibility for every resident to contribute to preserving the country’s environment for the future generation.
Mr Ofori-Agyeman was speaking at the launch of Round Two (2) of Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund in Kumasi.
The Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund is a global initiative taking root in 90 cities across five continents.
The program seeks to empower young people aged 15 to 24 to co-create and lead climate solutions that address environmental challenges within their communities.
Mr Ofori-Agyeman noted that Kumasi’s inclusion in the global program was a significant milestone in the city’s journey towards sustainability and environmental stewardship.
He pointed out that the city successfully completed Round One (1) of the programmes, during which 14 youth-led groups received funding for climate-focused initiatives.
Those projects collectively engaged over 2,400 young people across the metropolis.
“Building on the success of Round 1, Round 2 offers us a greater opportunity to deepen collaboration, support more impactful projects, and inspire the next generation of climate champions,” the mayor stated.
According to him, KMA had received a fresh grant of US$100,000 from Bloomberg Philanthropies to support youth-led environmental projects for Round 2.
A total of 54 proposals were submitted by various youth groups across Kumasi.
After a thorough evaluation process, 26 proposals have been selected to receive micro-grants ranging from US$1,000 to US$5,000 each.
The selected projects include innovative ideas such as plastic recycling, sustainable briquette production, waste segregation and recycling, composting, climate education campaigns, and community-based green initiatives.
Mr Ofori-Agyeman commended all the applicants for their enthusiasm and commitment to creating a cleaner and greener Kumasi.
He congratulated the 26 successful groups and charged them with implementing their projects with diligence and passion.
“Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the change-makers of today.
I urge all beneficiaries to work hard, deliver measurable results, and inspire their peers,” he emphasized.
The launch event was also an opportunity for some of the successful applicants to share their excitement and appreciation.
“We are grateful to Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly for this opportunity,” one of the beneficiaries said.
This funding will help us implement our idea of converting agricultural waste into eco-friendly briquettes for local use.”
Another beneficiary added, “the grant will allow us to engage our peers in plastic collection and recycling, turning waste into useful products.
We are ready to make an impact.”
The Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund represents a growing commitment by city leaders and international partners to empower local youth and grassroots organizations in the global fight against climate change.
GNA
KOM/LAA