The Director of Climate Vulnerability and Adaptation at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Antwi Boasiako Amoah has disclosed that the Ghanaian government is urgently seeking $15 billion in international aid to tackle the worsening climate crisis.
The funds will be used to support climate adaptation projects, particularly in northern Ghana, where unpredictable weather patterns are severely affecting agriculture.
According to him, climate change has already altered rainfall patterns, caused higher temperatures, and increased drought frequency, which is deeply impacting local communities. With agriculture being the backbone of Ghana's economy, farmers in the northern regions are struggling with crop failures and land abandonment.
Speaking to Journalists courtesy of Jospong Group at the ongoing COP29 Climate Conference, he explained that Ghana’s climate adaptation strategies will focus on strengthening infrastructure to cope with extreme weather, investing in resilient agricultural practices, and protecting natural ecosystems.
These efforts will include building water conservation systems to support farmers during prolonged dry periods, developing climate-resilient crop varieties, and restoring degraded lands.
One of the major challenges facing Ghana, however, is the financial gap that limits the country’s ability to fully implement these adaptation measures. The $15 billion in aid would enable the government to not only mitigate current impacts but also build long-term resilience to future climate risks. Without this funding, Ghana may face worsening food insecurity, increased poverty levels, and migration pressures as communities are forced to relocate due to deteriorating environmental conditions.
Minister of Communications and Digitalisation Ursula Owusu-Ekuful also emphasized the importance of a unified, collaborative approach to combat climate change. The government has until 2030 to secure the needed funds to prevent further environmental and economic devastation.
She pointed out the need for public engagement to encourage climate-friendly behaviours, stressing that everyone must be involved in reducing Ghana's environmental vulnerability. She mentioned initiatives to promote sustainable practices at the household level, reduce emissions, and support green businesses, all of which require a united front from the government, private sector, and citizens alike.
At the UN Climate Change Conference in Azerbaijan, Ghana is joining other developing nations in calling for fair financial support from wealthier countries. The appeal underscores the disproportionate impact of climate change on low-income countries, which contribute minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions but bear some of the harshest consequences.
