Ghana’s Environment Minister Calls for Stronger UN Collaboration on Sustainability.

The United Nations in Ghana is strengthening its partnership with key government ministries to align programs and enhance support for the country’s development priorities.

Recently, the UN Country Team, led by Resident Coordinator Mr. Charles Abani, met with the Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed (MP), to foster collaboration, ensure continuity in development efforts, and bolster Ghana’s response to pressing environmental challenges.

Discussions focused on key areas of cooperation, including research funding, climate resilience, sustainable urban planning, and environmental sustainability, aligning with the Ministry’s strategic priorities.

The Minister noted that environmental protection and sustainability remains at the heart of the Ministry, emphasizing that every policy must directly serve the needs of the people. He touched on the issue of illegal mining and the need for collaborative, multi-agency approach to address it, noting that his Ministry, the Ministry of Lands and Water Resources, the Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Health will collectively address the issue effectively.

He also stressed the importance of political accountability in environmental governance, stating that illegal mining should not be influenced by political affiliations as it is a national concern affecting all citizens. Additionally, he highlighted the need to integrate gender and youth-focused initiatives into environmental policies, creating employment opportunities while addressing key environmental issues.

Mr. Abani commended the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive collaboration, reinforcing the UN’s dedication to supporting sustainable development efforts. 

Moving forward, the UN will facilitate sector-specific discussions with relevant agencies to strengthen policy implementation, promote sustainable resource management, and drive Ghana’s transition to a greener economy.