The Ministry of Youth and Sports, through the National Youth Authority, has inaugurated the National Youth Group on Climate Change on Tuesday in Accra to create an effective platform that would unite and empower youth-led organisations in climate action.
Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports, Mr Evans Opoku Bobie, stated that the youth are recognised as the backbone of the country and significantly contribute to the nation’s development.
According to him, the launch marks a significant step towards the country’s collective commitment to combat climate change.
Mr Bobie indicated that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 13 underscores the urgency of climate action amidst the global climate crisis.
“Climate change threatens not only our environment but also our very way of life because its challenge cannot be overstated,” he said.
He stated that the establishment of the National Youth Action Group on Climate Change was a testament to the power of unity and collaboration bringing together a myriad of youth-led organisations, working in tandem with relevant stakeholders to form a formidable force for change.
On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, Mr. Pius Enam Hadzide, indicated that the responsibilities of the newly established group include youth engagement and empowerment, knowledge sharing and learning and mobilisation of resources.
He added that the Authority would ensure that the voices of the youth are heard and their ideas are transformed into impactful solutions.
Mr Hadzide called for a concerted effort to tackle the climate crisis head-on and noted that the National Youth Authority was committed to mobilising the needed resources, guidance and mentorship to ensure the success of the group.
Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD