The Republic of Ghana has officially assumed the two‑year rotational chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) for the period January 2026 – December 2027. The mandate, which rotates among sub‑regional blocs, places Ghana at the forefront of Africa’s voice in the global climate arena.
The chairmanship is being steered by Nana Dr. Antwi‑Boasiako Amoah, Director of Climate Vulnerability and Adaptation at Ghana’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).
Dr. Amoah brings two decades of public‑service experience, with a focus on international climate diplomacy, policy development and youth capacity‑building across the continent.
His academic credentials include a PhD from the University of Ghana, an MSc in Environmental Science from Lund University in Sweden, and an Executive MBA from the University of Ghana Business School.
In his EPA role, Dr. Amoah coordinates Ghana’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) project and has acted as lead negotiator for the G77 and China on NAPs within the UNFCCC process. He is also deeply involved in implementing Ghana’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), preparing National Communications, and drafting Biennial Transparency Reports.
His expertise extends to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board, where he represents Ghana and contributes to shaping international climate finance.
Beyond government, Dr. Amoah lectures part‑time at the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies, University of Ghana, mentoring graduate researchers since 2019.
He holds the traditional title Nana Antwi‑Boasiako Amoah, enstooled as Dwoamin Nifahene of the Kokofu Traditional Council.
Observers note that Ghana’s leadership of the AGN comes at a critical juncture, as the continent seeks to amplify adaptation financing and ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard in upcoming UN climate talks.
The chair’s agenda, as outlined by Dr. Amoah, will focus on three pillars: strengthening the pipeline of bankable adaptation projects, mobilising private‑sector investment through blended finance mechanisms, and enhancing the capacity of African negotiators to secure fair climate deals on the global stage.
The first major test of Ghana’s tenure will be the upcoming UN Climate Conference in Nairobi, where Dr. Amoah is expected to rally support for a continent‑wide push to increase the share of climate finance earmarked for adaptation, particularly in agriculture, water resources and coastal resilience.
His dual role as a senior government official and a traditional leader is seen as a unique asset, allowing him to bridge formal policy processes with community‑level realities.
As Ghana steps into this pivotal role, many are watching to see how Dr. Amoah’s blend of technical expertise, diplomatic experience and deep cultural roots will shape Africa’s climate narrative over the next two years.
The nation’s commitment to climate action, underscored by its recent progress in renewable energy deployment and carbon‑market development, positions it well to champion the continent’s priorities on the world stage.
Source: www.climatewatchonline.com
