By: Maltiti Sayida Sadic
The Newly appointed minister for Environment, Science, and Technology Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala is currently taking a closer look at Ghana’s environmental challenges, particularly the fate of the Green Ghana Day initiative, which saw millions of cedis pumped into the planting of trees across the country. Dr. Ibrahim Murtala mohammed in an interview with host Maltiti Sayida Sadick on GTV Breakfast Show questioned the effectiveness of the program saying there are concerns over the tracking of the trees planted and calling for a thorough audit to account for the millions invested. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources initially took the lead on this initiative, but the Dr Murtala Mohammed argued that the task would have been better suited to the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology, which has the expertise in managing environmental projects.
The Minister speaking on illegal Mining revealed that in a recent visit to Takoradi to represent President Mahama at an event, a stark reality hit home: the pollution of water bodies in Ghana has reached alarming levels. The worsening state of the country’s rivers and lakes has sparked concerns among citizens and environmental advocates, with some individuals having already approached the ministry requesting action to clean these water bodies. Dr Murtala Mohammed said the ministry’s efforts are now focused on solutions, including restoring the nation’s land cover, which has been severely damaged by illegal mining (galamsey) activities. However, funding for these projects is a challenge. According to Murtala Mohammed, funding for these projects primarily comes from international partners, but he emphasized that Ghana must explore innovative ways to fund and execute such crucial projects, especially as the country’s financial climate remains tough. Rising interest rates and an unstable dollar left by the previous government further complicating the matter.
Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology is looking ahead with optimism. The minister has pointed to carbon trading and the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) as key strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. With climate change becoming an undeniable reality, the ministry plans to create a nationwide network of EV charging ports, which is part of Ghana’s long-term strategy to reduce harmful emissions. The shift to electric mobility is already gaining traction, with Okada riders (motorcycle taxis) set to go green with e-bikes that will soon be made available to them.
Additionally, the government is pushing forward with a new initiative: the “Every Child Per Tree” campaign. This initiative, which leverages the competitive spirit of Ghana’s youth, aims to encourage children to take part in tree planting activities. The campaign is part of a broader effort to address deforestation and enhance Ghana’s green cover.
In addressing these challenges holistically the minister noted that government is especially focused on greening Ghana and places like the Northern Belt of the country, which remains largely arid, requires massive tree planting initiatives to help combat desertification. With the support of local communities and international partners, the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology believes that a greener, cleaner Ghana is within reach.
