Media briefing amplifies global call for urgent action towards renewable energy – A Moment of Opportunity

In Ghana, its effects are already evident—rising sea levels, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events are threatening coastal regions, agriculture, and vital infrastructure.

Amid these threats, shifting to clean and sustainable energy is among the most powerful solutions to cut greenhouse gas emissions and combat the climate crisis.

On 22 July 2025, the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres spotlighted a hopeful narrative when he presented a powerful, evidence-based case for an inevitable and just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, highlighting the significant benefits it promises for both people and economies.

To amplify the Secretary-Genera’s message, the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Accra, in partnership with the UN Global Compact Ghana, convened a media briefing.

In his address, “A Moment of Opportunity” the Secretary-General laid out urgent priorities for governments, businesses, and financial institutions to transition away from fossil fuels and accelerate the move to clean, renewable energy.

“Countries that cling to fossil fuels are not protecting their economies — they are sabotaging them.  Driving up costs.  Undermining competitiveness.  Locking in stranded assets.  And missing the greatest economic opportunity of the twenty-first century”, the Secretary-General stated. 

In Accra, the press briefing offered a platform to localize this global message, with a focus on Ghana’s unique challenges and opportunities in the fight against climate change. The briefing also spotlighted Ghana’s involvement in the Ocean Centre Initiative — a regional platform focused on climate resilience, innovation, and sustainable blue economy strategies.

Speaking as Country Lead for the Ocean Centre in Ghana, Dr. Emmanuel Kofi Mbiah said the initiative offers Ghana a timely opportunity to develop a coordinated, nationally driven platform focused on ocean governance and offshore clean energy.

As Ghana advances its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, the message from the UN Secretary-General is clear: “We have the tools to power the future for humanity… this is our moment of opportunity.”