Dr. Ibrahim Murtala, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, is scrutinizing the Green Ghana Day initiative’s effectiveness and calling for a financial audit. He emphasizes the urgent need for solutions to pollution from illegal mining and advocates for innovative funding. The ministry is optimistic about carbon trading and electric vehicles, and newly launched programs engage children in environmental activities to strengthen tree planting efforts.
Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala, the newly appointed Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, is critically assessing the Green Ghana Day initiative, which invested millions of cedis in nationwide tree planting. In an interview with Maltiti Sayida Sadick on the GTV Breakfast Show, Dr. Murtala expressed concerns about tracking the planted trees and called for a comprehensive audit of the funds spent. He argued that managing this initiative would have been more appropriate for the Ministry of Environment, which is better equipped for environmental projects.
Discussing illegal mining, Dr. Murtala highlighted the severe pollution affecting Ghana’s water bodies, following a visit to Takoradi, where he represented President Mahama. He acknowledged the citizens’ concerns regarding the polluted rivers and lakes and affirmed the ministry’s commitment to finding solutions, such as restoring land affected by illegal mining. Funding these initiatives poses a significant challenge, as most financial support comes from international partners. Dr. Murtala stated that innovative funding methods are essential given the current financial constraints in the country, exacerbated by rising interest rates and a destabilized dollar left by previous administrations.
Optimistically, the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology is pursuing strategies to combat climate change, including carbon trading and promoting electric vehicles (EVs). A planned nationwide infrastructure for EV charging ports aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative forms part of Ghana’s comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability, particularly as the adoption of electric mobility is gaining momentum among motorcycle taxi riders, who will soon access e-bikes.
Additionally, a new initiative titled “Every Child Per Tree” aims to engage children in tree planting, tapping into their competitive spirit. This campaign seeks to combat deforestation and enhance Ghana’s green environment through active participation from the youth. The government is focusing on large-scale tree planting, particularly in arid areas such as the Northern Belt, to address desertification and promote a greener landscape with the support of local communities and international partners.
The Minister’s agenda positions Ghana towards a more sustainable future, emphasizing community involvement and innovative solutions as vital components in achieving environmental goals.
In conclusion, the newly appointed Minister Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala is addressing critical environmental challenges in Ghana, particularly regarding the management and effectiveness of the Green Ghana Day initiative. By advocating for an audit of the funds used, tackling illegal mining pollution, and initiating youth involvement in tree planting, the Ministry aims to restore environmental integrity. Furthermore, embracing innovative funding strategies and promoting electric mobility positions Ghana favorably in the fight against climate change and ecological degradation.
Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com
