The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), in collaboration with Bloomberg Philanthropies and key international partners, has rolled out the second phase of the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF), a global initiative designed to empower young people aged 15 to 24 to take meaningful action against climate change.

Launched on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the Accra City Hall, the initiative aims to support youth-led climate projects across the metropolis.

With an additional budget of $100,000, phase two is expected to scale up the impact of community-driven climate solutions.

Event

Speaking at the event, the Coordinating Director of AMA, Mr. Douglas N.K. Annoful emphasised the urgency of addressing climate change, which he described as one of the most pressing challenges of modern times.

He highlighted that the effects of climate change, including unpredictable weather patterns and rising sea levels, were already being felt globally and in Accra.

“The impacts of climate change transcend borders, cultures, and generations. From unpredictable weather patterns to rising sea levels, the consequences of inaction are dire,” Mr. Annoful said adding “We must take bold steps to mitigate these effects and protect our environment.”

Mr. Annoful pointed out that the Youth Climate Action Fund was a recognition of the vital role young people play in combating climate change.

 “The creativity, innovation, and determination of our youth are essential in driving the solutions we need to combat this crisis,” he stated.

Pivotal step

He noted that, in line with Accra’s Climate Action Plan, the launch of the second phase of the fund was a pivotal step in engaging youth in climate action adding that, Bloomberg Philanthropies in April 2024  launched the global initiative to provide funding and technical assistance to 100 mayors, including Accra, to activate youth-led solutions.

Mr Annoful said under Phase I of the fund, each participating city, including Accra, received $50,000 to support micro-grants for youth-driven climate projects and announced that Phase II extends that support with a budget increase to $100,000 to further amplify youth-led efforts across communities.

“Climate change knows no boundaries, and neither should our efforts to combat it....we must work hand in hand with local communities, governments, and organisations to create a unified front against this global challenge,” he said.

He urged young people to take full advantage of the funding, emphasising that their ideas—whether focused on renewable energy, conservation, or climate education—were valuable.

 “This is your opportunity to transform your passion into action,” he said.

Social justice

In addition to environmental concerns, Mr. Annoful highlighted the importance of social justice in climate action.

 “The impacts of climate change disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. We are responsible for ensuring that our solutions are inclusive and equitable,” he added.

Veteran musician

Veteran musician and climate advocate Okyeame Kwame, who also spoke at the launch, highlighted Africa’s role in the climate crisis.

 He pointed out that while the continent contributed less than five percent to global carbon emissions, it remained one of the hardest hit by climate change, experiencing rising sea levels, droughts, and extreme weather events.

“Africa may not be the biggest polluter, but we cannot ignore our responsibility. With 57 per cent of the continent’s population made up of young people, the power to innovate and drive change is in our hands,” he said, urging young Ghanaians to seize opportunities in climate innovation.

Beneficiary

Sharing his experience as a beneficiary of the first phase of the fund, Executive Director of the World Inspiring Network, Maxwell Odonkor, said his team received a $2,000 grant to implement The Youth Eco Project, which focused on climate education and energy conservation.

“We engaged young people on the causes and effects of climate change and trained them to become ambassadors in their schools and communities,” he explained, stressing that the project empowered students to educate their families on energy-saving techniques.

He expressed appreciation to the AMA , Bloomberg Philanthropies, and other supporting organisations for their contributions to youth-driven climate action.

The event brought together government officials, climate experts, development partners, traditional leaders, and young climate innovators, reinforcing Accra’s commitment to fostering youth participation in the global fight against climate change.