Ghana’s Minister for Communications and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, highlighted the urgent need for proactive climate action both in Ghana and globally.
She was speaking to journalists at the ongoing COP29 Climate Conference, where she acknowledged the far-reaching effects of climate change.
She emphasized the importance of consistent engagement on the issue, rather than addressing it only in response to disasters.
“Climate change is something that affects us all in so many ways,” she stated. “We haven’t been active in speaking about it regularly. When we continue to speak about it, we can prevent more severe impacts.”
Owusu-Ekuful outlined Ghana’s efforts to address climate challenges, including collaboration across sectors and adapting strategies to changing climate patterns.
She cited how shifts in rainfall have affected farmers, explaining that the Ghana Meteorological Agency had advised the Ministry of Agriculture to inform farmers to adjust planting schedules according to the altered rainfall patterns.
Unfortunately, this guidance came too late for many farmers, leading to crop disruptions this season.
Coastal erosion and rising sea levels are also taking a toll on Ghana’s coastal communities, underscoring the need for education and preparation among residents. “People in coastal areas must be educated on what to do in such cases,” she said, highlighting the need for a coordinated strategy.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful called on all government agencies to unite in developing a comprehensive approach to climate resilience.
She stressed the role of lifestyle changes and enforcement of environmental laws, suggesting these as steps to mitigate climate-related impacts on everyday life.
Echoing her concerns, she warned that unchecked climate change could exacerbate inflation globally.
“Worsening climate impacts will put inflation on steroids unless every country can take bolder climate action,” she stated, drawing parallels with the pandemic’s economic toll.
She emphasized climate finance as a form of “global inflation insurance” and called on the international community to prioritize the escalating costs of climate inaction.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful is calling for immediate, united action to avert a climate crisis that will only grow more costly with time.