Accra, Ghana – The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, recently paid a working visit to three project sites under the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) to assess progress made in advancing youth-led climate resilience and greening initiatives across the metropolis.
The Mayor, accompanied by officials of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and beneficiaries of the Fund, visited project sites at Accra Academy, Jamestown, and Mamprobi, where various urban greening and climate adaptation projects were being implemented under Phase II of the YCAF, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies and international partners.
At Accra Academy, the Mayor inspected the ‘Apata’ Initiative, a youth-driven project named after the Twi word for shed, featuring cooling sheds constructed from reusable materials to provide relief from high temperatures and serve as learning models for sustainable design. The project is expected to reduce the urban heat island effect and provide a safe space for students to learn and relax.
In Jamestown, the Mayor inspected the Tree Guardians Project, implemented by Green Stewards, a youth climate group designed to promote environmental restoration and community pride while mitigating the effects of climate change.
The project involves planting trees and maintaining green spaces, which will help to absorb carbon dioxide, reduce pollution, and provide shade for residents.
At Mamprobi, the Mayor inspected an open space being converted into a community green park to provide shade and seating for residents as well as promote social interaction while improving the area’s microclimate. The park will feature benches, trees, and a playground, making it a safe and welcoming space for community members to gather and socialize.
Speaking after the tour, Hon. Allotey commended the youth groups for their dedication and innovation, describing their work as “a practical solution to one of the biggest challenges facing Accra’s extreme heat.”
He said the AMA remained committed to supporting young people driving sustainable change in their communities, adding, “By combining climate innovation with community needs, we make our city more liveable and advance our long-term vision of sustainable urban development.”
He noted that partnerships with youth groups and development organisations such as Bloomberg Philanthropies and UCLG were helping Accra achieve measurable progress toward its climate and mobility goals. The YCAF is part of Accra’s efforts to empower young people to drive climate action and promote sustainable development in the city.
The Mayor’s visit highlighted the importance of youth-led initiatives in addressing climate challenges and promoting sustainable development in Accra. The AMA is committed to supporting these initiatives and working with young people to create a more sustainable and resilient city for all.
Background:
The Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) is a program supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies and international partners, aimed at empowering young people to drive climate action and promote sustainable development in cities around the world. The program provides funding and technical support to youth-led projects that address climate challenges and promote sustainable development in their communities.
Accra’s Vision 2050 is a long-term plan aimed at making Accra a sustainable, resilient, and liveable city. The plan includes initiatives to promote climate-smart development, improve transportation, and enhance the quality of life for residents.
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is committed to supporting youth-led initiatives and promoting sustainable development in the city. The AMA is working with young people to create a more sustainable and resilient city for all.
Source: www.climatewatchonline.com
