On October 31, 2024, as cities globally commemorate World Cities Day, the theme “Youth Leading Climate and Local Action for Cities” underscores the critical role of young people in mitigating the pressing climate crisis.
This year’s Global Observance, held in Alexandria, Egypt, and organized by UN-Habitat, highlights youth advocacy for immediate, substantial climate resilience efforts and the call for local governments to prioritize sustainable development.
Cities, while driving economic progress, are also on the frontline of climate threats that could jeopardize these gains.
UN-Habitat emphasizes that it is essential for governments to empower youth with education, skills training, and enterprise opportunities, particularly in informal settlements, as a crucial path to urban resilience and reduced vulnerability.
Contributing over 80% of the world’s GDP, cities serve as economic engines, with higher GDP per capita often correlated with urbanization.
However, cities worldwide face climate hazards that undermine these economic gains, particularly impacting urban populations in informal settlements.
In Africa alone, climate disasters have adversely affected 2.6 million people, making it essential to implement sustainable urban policies.
UN-Habitat’s approach prioritizes support for youth, training them to lead efforts in sustainable practices, environmental conservation, and enterprise development to drive climate resilience within cities.
Ghana’s Commitment to Climate-Resilient Cities
In Ghana, the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development has implemented strategic projects aimed at climate resilience, sustainable growth, and community development.
Key initiatives like the Ghana Secondary Cities Support Programme, the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project, the Ghana Smart SDG Cities Programme, the Green Project, and the Ghana Productive Safety Net Project (GPSNP) embody Ghana’s commitment to building resilient and sustainable cities.
These projects not only address Ghana’s specific urban challenges but also serve as models for community-centered, innovative approaches that empower local populations.
Ghana Secondary Cities Support Programme
This program bolsters growth in secondary cities by enhancing urban management, infrastructure, and service delivery.
Improved road networks, waste management systems, and revitalized marketplaces have all contributed to economic activity and job creation.
These upgrades enable secondary cities to serve their communities effectively, becoming hubs of resilience and regional growth.
Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project
SOCO aims to strengthen social cohesion and reduce fragility in northern Ghana while addressing climate vulnerabilities within communities often overlooked in urban development plans.
By supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving local governance, the project promotes community adaptation to environmental changes.
A good number of youth have received vocational training, empowering them to lead sustainable practices in agriculture and small-scale enterprises, which aids in stabilizing these regions against future climate shocks.
Ghana Smart SDG Cities Programme
Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, this program advances smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth in urban areas.
Utilizing technology and data analytics, it enhances service delivery, reduces waste, and promotes eco-friendly urban management.
The program has achieved considerable reductions in energy consumption, optimizing public resources and promoting efficiency, illustrating how digital innovation is integral to building climate resilience.
Green Project
The Green Project focuses on reforestation, urban farming, and sustainable infrastructure, addressing environmental degradation head-on.
Through tree planting, creating urban green spaces, and promoting sustainable agriculture, the project fosters healthier, more climate-resilient urban areas, contributing to Ghana’s long-term climate adaptation goals.
Ghana Productive Safety Net Project (GPSNP)
GPSNP addresses urban and rural vulnerabilities by creating public employment opportunities that focus on environmental conservation and income-generating activities.
This project has improved the livelihoods of youth and women while promoting environmentally sustainable practices that support both immediate economic needs and long-term resilience.
Youth as the Pillars of Climate Action
Youth empowerment and engagement are integral to these projects. Through targeted training, capacity building, and support initiatives, Ghana’s Ministry of Local Government ensures that young people are equipped to lead sustainable, resilient communities.
Many young entrepreneurs have pioneered eco-friendly technologies, waste reduction initiatives, and green businesses within their localities, showcasing a youth-led movement toward a sustainable future.
Building Resilient Cities for Tomorrow
World Cities Day 2024 is a timely reminder of the collective responsibility to build climate-resilient cities.
For governments, this means prioritizing youth involvement in policy-making, urban planning, and sustainable development.
Ghana’s initiatives, spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government, provide inspiring examples of youth-led resilience strategies and sustainable infrastructure investments.
With a firm focus on empowerment and infrastructure, these programs set the foundation for a future where cities remain hubs of economic prosperity and are well-prepared for climate shocks.
As urban areas worldwide continue to experience the impacts of climate change, World Cities Day underscores the need to create sustainable urban spaces through collaboration, innovation, and youth investment.
By supporting the youth of today, Ghana and other nations can build the climate champions of tomorrow, equipped to lead the charge in building a resilient, sustainable future for all.
The writer is a Public Relations Officer with the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development (MLGDRD) and a staff member of the Information Services Department (ISD).