Climate change: Time to act is now

GHANA’S efforts to build resilience against climate change and disaster risks have taken a critical step forward with the recent presentation of findings from a comprehensive assessment conducted in 2022.

Led by the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and supported by the United Nations, this initiative marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey toward a robust Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) framework.

The findings from this assessment are clear: Ghana needs to prioritise preparedness and response plans across key sectors, including agriculture, energy, social protection, the environment, water, and sanitation.

The uneven distribution of climate impacts, which disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, must be addressed with urgency.

The call to action is for stakeholders to integrate these lessons into actionable strategies, ensuring that no community is left behind in the face of climate change.

The Director-General of NADMO, Hon. Eric Nana Agyemang Prempeh, has rightly emphasized that these findings will inform the development of a National DRR Strategy.

This strategy is not just a national necessity but a global commitment under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which Ghana, as a member state of the United Nations, is obliged to implement.

The call for support from stakeholders, particularly the UN system, underscores the need for coordinated efforts in turning these recommendations into reality.

Mr. Charles Abani, the UN Resident Coordinator, highlighted an essential aspect of Ghana’s approach: self-resilience. While international support is invaluable, Ghana’s long-term success in managing climate and disaster risks will depend on its ability to develop and implement prevention-driven policies and programmes.

The emphasis on investments like the Pwalugu multipurpose dam is a reminder that infrastructure development must align with the broader goal of climate adaptation and disaster risk management.

The 2022 assessment, conducted in collaboration with the UN and the Capacity for Disaster Reduction Initiative (CADRI) Partnership, involved extensive consultations across various sectors and regions.

The inclusive nature of this process is commendable, as it ensures that the findings reflect the realities on the ground and that the proposed solutions are both practical and sustainable.

As Ghana continues its journey toward resilience, it is imperative that all stakeholders remain engaged and committed.

The challenges posed by climate change and disasters are daunting, but with a coordinated and proactive approach, Ghana can build a future where its communities are better protected and more resilient. The time to act is now.