- IOM hosts National Dialogue on diaspora climate action.
- Ghanaian diaspora can contribute expertise and partnerships.
- Dialogue identifies climate challenges and initiatives.
- Event supports Ghana's diaspora engagement policy.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) collaborated with the Government of Ghana and the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) to host a National Dialogue on harnessing diaspora contributions to climate action in Ghana.
The event was part of the Diaspora for Climate Action (D4C) project, funded by the IOM Development Fund, which aims to facilitate collaboration between the Ghanaian diaspora and the government to address climate challenges.
Hon. John Kobina Sanie, Deputy Minister of Energy, emphasized the crucial role of the diaspora in combating climate change and rebuilding resilient ecosystems.
The Ghanaian diaspora is already engaged in sectors like energy, agriculture, forestry, and waste management, and can offer valuable expertise, knowledge exchange, and strategic partnerships to advance climate action priorities.
Amtu Akumfi-Ameyaw, UK-based Ghanaian Diaspora Climate Champion, highlighted the impact of climate change on lives and livelihoods, stressing the need for collective action and the diaspora’s potential to drive innovation.
The National Dialogue brought together government officials, diaspora representatives, and other stakeholders to share insights, discuss challenges, and identify actionable steps to enhance diaspora contributions to climate action.
A case study conducted by IOM prior to the dialogue identified opportunities and challenges for UK-based Ghanaian diaspora to contribute to climate action in Ghana.
Giulia Piccioni, Project Development & Donor Liaison Officer at IOM Ghana, expressed confidence in the project’s potential to strengthen the role of the Ghanaian diaspora in climate action and achieve sustainable development outcomes.
The UK is home to a large Ghanaian diaspora community, and IOM, the Government, and Diaspora have been working to connect diaspora members with key stakeholders in Ghana to support effective and coordinated climate action.
Ama K. Abebrese, IOM Ghana’s Goodwill Ambassador, encouraged stakeholders to continue their crucial work, highlighting the power of diaspora contributions and the potential for real change in the fight against climate change.
