A Call for Climate Justice and Gender Equality
In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and advocacy, ActionAid Ghana, in partnership with various youth movements, organized a climate justice campaign titled “Climate Justice Now.” The event, themed “Pedal for Safer Planet: Cycling for a Just Transition,” aimed to raise awareness about the urgent need for sustainable development and equitable climate action.
The campaign took place in Tamale and involved participants from several groups, including Activista Ghana, Young Urban Women’s Movement (YUWM), Young Females Platform, and smallholder women farmers. Participants cycled and walked through the main streets of Tamale, accompanied by brass band music led by musician Don Sigli, who used his platform to highlight key climate justice messages.
The route of the campaign started at Jubilee Park, passed through the Central Market area, and concluded at the Nyohini Dam. This symbolic journey was designed to draw attention to the pressing issues of climate change and the need for a just transition that prioritizes the well-being of both people and the planet.
Amplifying Voices for a Greener Future
As the global community prepares for COP 30 in Belem, Brazil, this campaign sought to amplify voices calling for increased investment in green transition efforts. Mr. John Nkaw, the Country Director of ActionAid Ghana, emphasized the organization’s commitment to addressing climate vulnerabilities that disproportionately affect women and marginalized communities.
He stated, “For ActionAid, being a gender-focused organization, we prioritize working with women groups to demand their rights. As we prepare towards COP 30 and ride on the optimism of the Global Action Week on Climate Change, it becomes increasingly imperative that we collaborate with government officials, youth, and women groups to speak on issues affecting them such as drying water bodies and the depletion of biodiversity.”
Mr. Nkaw also urged government and global entities to increase investment in renewable energy technologies to promote a just transition that safeguards both people and the planet.
Empowering Women Through Sustainable Agriculture
Mrs. Beatrice Biije, Programmes Manager at ActionAid Ghana’s Northern Regional Office, highlighted the organization’s efforts to empower women financially through all-year-round agricultural support. She explained that funding irrigation initiatives rather than limiting assistance to seasonal farming is crucial for long-term sustainability.
Ms. Sumaya Sulemana, a representative of YUWM, pointed out how climate change exacerbates gender inequalities, particularly in land ownership and access. She said, “We are calling on all stakeholders to give us opportunities that will empower women when it comes to land issues.”
Youth Leadership and Economic Opportunities
Mr. Abdul Latif Issahaku, Coordinator of Activista Ghana in the Northern Region, addressed the issue of youth unemployment and its social consequences. He called on the government to invest heavily in green jobs, stating, “If you look at the impact of climate change, it affects the livelihoods of families and young people.”
Mrs. Bintu Abubakar, President of the Smallholder Women Farmers in the Northern Region, commended ActionAid Ghana for its continuous support to women in agriculture. She appealed for more interventions in land acquisition, access to loans and grants, and irrigation facilities to promote all-year farming and animal rearing.
Advocacy and Petition for Change
The event featured advocacy pitches from youth movements and included a presentation of a petition to President John Dramani Mahama through the Northern Regional Minister at his residence. This act underscored the collective voice of the participants in demanding meaningful policy changes.
A Broader Vision for Climate Justice
The Pedal for Safe Planet campaign is part of ActionAid Ghana’s broader efforts to promote climate justice as an essential step toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. By empowering women and youth, the organization aims to lead the call for a greener, fairer, and safer planet.
Through these initiatives, ActionAid Ghana continues to play a vital role in advocating for environmental sustainability and social equity, ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and acted upon.