Greenfaith Ghana, a non-governmental organization dedicated to environmental stewardship through interfaith collaboration, orchestrated a significant climate action event in Bolgatanga, Upper East Region, on April 4, 2025. This event culminated in a formal petition presented to the Regional Minister, underscoring the urgent need for government intervention to address the escalating climate crisis and its detrimental impact on the region’s agricultural sector and food security. The march and petition delivery served as a powerful platform to raise awareness about the pressing climate challenges facing the region and to advocate for immediate and effective action from the government. This event encapsulates Greenfaith Ghana’s commitment to mobilizing communities and engaging with authorities to combat climate change and protect vulnerable populations from its adverse effects.
The core message of the petition, delivered by Lead Project Manager Hilary Adongo, emphasized the direct link between climate change and the increasing vulnerability of the region’s agricultural practices, threatening food security and the livelihoods of local farmers. He argued that the unpredictable weather patterns and other climate-related disruptions demand immediate government support to equip farmers with the necessary resources and strategies to adapt to these challenges. Adongo also highlighted the pivotal role of youth in climate action, emphasizing the need to engage them in environmental stewardship and empower them to safeguard their future. This intergenerational perspective underscores the long-term implications of climate change and the importance of building a sustainable future for generations to come.
Receiving the petition on behalf of the Regional Minister, Acting Regional Coordinating Director Al-Hassan Ibrahim Abdul-Kadr acknowledged the severity of the climate crisis impacting farmers in the Upper East Region. He echoed the concerns raised about inconsistent rainfall patterns and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to alleviating agricultural challenges through strategic policy interventions aimed at bolstering productivity and resilience. Abdul-Kadr commended Greenfaith Ghana’s proactive approach to climate action and encouraged the organization to continue its vital work in raising awareness and mobilizing communities to address environmental challenges. His acknowledgment of the government’s commitment to agricultural development through policy interventions underscores the potential for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and civil society organizations like Greenfaith Ghana to address the climate crisis effectively.
Abdul-Kadr also pointed to the significant contribution of human activities to climate change, specifically highlighting deforestation, improper waste disposal, and the harmful practice of bush burning. He urged Greenfaith Ghana to extend its outreach efforts by actively engaging farmers and residents in initiatives to mitigate these environmentally damaging practices. This emphasis on community engagement highlights the importance of grassroots action and behavioral change in addressing the root causes of climate change. By fostering collaboration and empowering local communities to adopt sustainable practices, Greenfaith Ghana can amplify its impact and contribute to a more environmentally conscious society.
Felicia Atipoka, President of Greenfaith Ghana in the Upper East Region, echoed the call for collective action, urging youth and women to actively participate in the organization’s initiatives. She proudly shared the impressive growth of Greenfaith Ghana, noting the significant increase in membership from 30 to over 100 in just one year. This rapid expansion signifies the growing recognition of the organization’s vital role in addressing climate change and the increasing public engagement in environmental issues. Atipoka’s emphasis on youth and women’s participation underscores the importance of inclusive climate action and the power of diverse perspectives in developing effective solutions.
Greenfaith Ghana’s unique approach lies in its interfaith collaboration, harnessing the collective beliefs and energies of diverse faith groups in Ghana to combat climate change and its impacts. This approach leverages the moral authority and community networks of religious institutions to promote environmental stewardship and inspire action. By uniting diverse faith communities under a common goal, Greenfaith Ghana fosters a powerful sense of shared responsibility and collective action to address the climate crisis. This collaborative approach strengthens their advocacy efforts and expands their reach within local communities, creating a broader movement for environmental protection and sustainable development. The organization’s growth, its engagement with government officials, and its focus on community mobilization demonstrate its commitment to building a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for Ghana.
