Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif has highlighted the effective steps Ghana has taken to combat the increasing rate of pollution and emissions.
At the 2024 UN ECOSOG Summit in New York, United States, Mustapha Ussif said Ghana is faced with the realities of urbanization and its challenges and government has had to tackle it with innovative and sustainable solutions.
"As Ghana grapples with the realities of urbanization where over 50% of our population is urbanized, we face critical challenges from increasing pollution and emissions. These pressing issues demand innovative, sustainable solutions," Mustapha Ussif said at the plenary session of the conference.
"In response, Ghana has implemented robust policies like the National Climate Change and Green Jobs policy aimed at fostering a sustainable low carbon economy," he said.
Mustapha Ussif added that through the SDGs Cities Global Initiative, Accra is becoming a model of sustainable urban development.
"Our construction sector's adoption of interlocking brick technology significantly reduces emissions, cuts costs and supports the use of local materials.
"Moreover, our Green Ghana Day initiative with over 10 million seedlings planted in 2023 is actively greening our urban landscapes and engaging our youth in meaningful environmental stewardship."
As the ECOSOG summit look to the future, the Sports Minister announced Ghana's proposals for three strategic initiatives:
"Firstly, a Global Urban Resilience Fund that will support youth-led projects that bring innovative urban solutions and empower young entrepreneurs.
"Secondly, International Youth Innovation Hubs that are accessible to all youths; these hubs will provide mentorship and resources, ensuring inclusivity and support for underrepresented groups.
"Thirdly, a Worldwide Urban Greening Initiative in partnership with schools and youth organizations which will integrate educational programmes and hands-on activities, fostering active youth participation in urban environmental efforts."
The Minister also called for empowerment of the youth saying “we call on all stakeholders to support these initiatives, putting young people at the forefront of transforming our cities into sustainable and resilient communities”.
