The Ghana Climate Justice Movement (GCJM) has been inaugurated in Accra, uniting over 40 civil society organizations (CSOs) and stakeholders in a shared commitment to combat climate change in Ghana.

The launch spearheaded by Greenpeace Africa (GPAF) represents a collaborative effort among diverse organizations dedicated to promoting climate justice and solidarity in the country.

The CSOs emphasised that Ghana and Africa, despite their minimal contribution to the climate crisis, should not continue to bear the devastating impacts of climate change.

They stressed the need for global and localised responses, particularly in vulnerable countries to address the global challenge.

“On this day, July 12, 2024, we, the members of the GCJM, pledge our dedication to addressing the urgent and pressing issue of climate change. Together, we will strive to build a more sustainable, just, and resilient future for Ghana and the world,” the declaration said. It represents a pledge to GCJM’s common objectives. It marks the start of a united effort to achieve tangible climate justice in Ghana, fostering a collaborative journey towards a shared vision.

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GCJM has outlined 20 key objectives across seven categories: Climate adaptation and mitigation, climate justice, collaboration and partnership, education and advocacy, research and innovation, communication and commitment. These objectives aim to address various aspects of climate change and promote a comprehensive approach to climate justice in Ghana.

The GCJM will champion eco-friendly practices, boost community resilience, and advocate for fair access to resources, ensuring climate action that: cuts greenhouse gas emissions, supports vulnerable groups, promotes inclusive decision-making and reflects community needs and voices.

The movement prioritises climate justice, equity, and the well-being of all, especially marginalized communities.

The movement will also help communities, especially vulnerable ones, adapt to climate change, advocate for fair access to resources and opportunities for all and ensure climate action is inclusive and reflects the needs of all community members aimed at addressing climate change fairly, and sustainably.

The movement also aims to bring together diverse stakeholders, including government, NGOs, private sector, academia, community groups, faith-based organizations, and traditional institutions, to collaborate and amplify impact, share knowledge and best practices to enhance collective actions and mobilize resources, capacity, and technological support to enhance collective action.

Communication and Story Manager of Greenpeace Africa, Ferdinand Omondi, emphasised that the time for action has arrived, and CSOs must now take concrete steps to fulfil their responsibilities and achieve the set objectives.

“We want climate action now,” Ferdinand Omondi said.

CSOs such as the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, Centre for Climate Change & Food Security (CCCFS), and Food Sovereignty Ghana among others, who are already actively working to protect the environment and preserve indigenous food systems, have expressed their enthusiasm to intensify their efforts and contribute more to the climate justice movement.

These CSOs have been dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture practices, supporting small-scale farmers, and advocating for policies that prioritize food sovereignty and environmental stewardship. By joining the Ghana Climate Justice Movement, they aim to amplify their impact and collaborate with other stakeholders to achieve a common goal of climate justice and sustainability.