Director of Ghana’s Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), Professor Peter Quartey, has urged the government to significantly increase funding for climate change research. in a pressing call to action,
This appeal comes ahead of the upcoming Evidence to Action Conference and Exhibition in Accra, focusing on “Resilience and climate change adaptation.”
Prof. Quartey emphasized the critical need for comprehensive research to assess the risks and impacts of climate change across various sectors.
“We must invest in research to understand the full extent of the problem and inform effective policy interventions,” he stated during a press briefing on this year’s Evidence to Action Conference and Exhibition, held on July 22, in Accra.
The professor highlighted that current research funding is insufficient, despite the high demand for data-driven policymaking in addressing such critical issues.
The ISSER director also expressed concerns over policy inconsistencies that have hindered sustainable solutions. Of particular worry is the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s agricultural sector. Prof. Quartey warned, “If we do not take care, we may find ourselves needing to import food and water due to the contamination caused by chemicals used in illegal mining.”
To combat these challenges, Prof. Quartey suggested embracing smart agricultural practices and technological innovations. He called for a concerted effort from the government, researchers, and civil society to safeguard Ghana’s agricultural future against the threats posed by illegal mining.
Supporting this call for action, Dr. Betty Annan, AGRA’s Ghana Country Director, highlighted her organization’s role in fostering sustainable agricultural practices across Africa. She emphasized AGRA’s collaborative approach with governments, private sectors, and communities to empower smallholder farmers.
Dr. David Ameyaw, CEO of the International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED), reinforced the need for data-driven policies to mitigate climate change challenges. He underscored the critical importance of global cooperation in tackling climate change, urging stakeholders to heed scientific recommendations for sustainable development.
As Ghana grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the Evidence to Action Conference became a crucial platform for fostering collaboration towards sustainable solutions.
With experts calling for increased research funding and evidence-based policymaking, the government’s expected to respond to these urgent appeals for action in the face of mounting climate and agricultural challenges.
