Climate change governance, human rights issue — CDD-Ghana

Climate change is no longer a scientific concern but a pressing governance and human rights issue that affects every aspect of life on the African continent, the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr Edem Selormey, has said.

"Climate change is not only a matter of science and geography, it affects every aspect of life, therefore, knowledge about climate change should not only be informed by scientific data but also by our shared experiences, opinions and a collective approach to adaptation and resilience," she added.

Dr Selormey, who is the Director of Research and Knowledge Management at the organisation, was speaking at the third stakeholders’ meeting of data for governance alliance (D4GA) on governance, democracy and human rights in Africa in Accra yesterday.

The five-day meeting has CSOs from across the continent and regional bodies in attendance to help address Africa’s pressing challenges.

It will also equip participants with data and skills to advocate effectively for governance and rule of law issues at the national and continental levels.

It is being hosted by CDD-Ghana, with support from the EU.

Dr Selormey emphasised the importance of CSOs in advocating climate justice and also holding governments accountable for their commitments.

Citing an Afrobarometer survey to buttress her point, she said, more than 50 per cent of Africans believed that ordinary citizens could make a difference in combating climate change.

"This belief underscores the power of grass-roots movements in driving policy change and promoting sustainable practices,” Dr Selormey said.

She also highlighted AU's green recovery action plan as an example of the continent's commitment to integrating climate resilience into national development agendas.

"This plan emphasises renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and ecosystem restoration, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions," the director said.

Dr Selormey further said that public support for renewable energy initiatives was strong, with approximately 70 per cent of African respondents favouring government investment in renewable energy sources.

Challenges

The Programmes and Operations Manager of CDD-Ghana, Frederick Adu-Gyamfi, said Africa was facing a storm of challenges that threatened the stability and prosperity of the continent.

"The recent coups in Niger and Gabon, as well as failed attempts in other countries have highlighted a troubling trend of democratic backsliding in Africa," he said, adding that “this, combined with the instability in the Sahel region and the devastating effects of climate change, have created a complex web of challenges that require urgent attention".

"These events have underscored the urgent need for robust responses to governance and security crises that threaten the stability of our nations," Mr Adu-Gyamfi said.

He also said that climate change had led to an increase in conflicts over resources, particularly in agricultural communities, thus, exposing the continent to further economic and social vulnerabilities.

"Corruption, poor governance and economic mismanagement have created a breeding ground for youth unemployment, social unrest, and the lure of dangerous migration routes," the manager added.

Mr Adu-Gyamfi further said that "the absence of effective state presence in many communities has left a vacuum that extremist groups are eager to fill by drawing vulnerable youth into their ranks".

He, therefore, called on citizens, CSOs and regional bodies to work together to create a better future - a resilient and prosperous Africa capable of withstanding those shocks and delivering on the promise of the "Africa We Want".