Founder and CEO of the HATOF Foundation, Dr. Samuel Dotse, has been named Laureate of Distinction in Climate Change at the 2025 Millennium Excellence Awards, held at the Manhyia Palace, the seat of Asantehene, in Kumasi.

The Millennium Excellence Foundation, under the auspices of its Life Patron, His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, conferred the Millennium Excellence Award for Climate Change Excellence on Dr. Dotse in recognition of his exemplary contributions to sustainable development, environmental conservation, and global climate action.

Dr. Dotse was celebrated particularly for his advocacy in biodiversity conservation, climate finance mobilization, policy influence, and capacity building across Ghana and beyond. A citation presented in his honour read in part: "We are proud to celebrate your advocacy for biodiversity conservation, capacity building for climate change action, climate finance mobilization, policy influence and research. This award is a testament of our collective appreciation, and a reminder that the similitude of positive impact is like that of a bright glowing lamp in the depth of darkness, giving hope and direction to many across the entire horizon."

In addition to the award, Dr. Dotse and the other awardees were personally presented with Gold Medals of special recognition by His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II during a ceremonial dinner held in honour of their achievements.

Dr. Samuel Dotse is a distinguished climate expert, environmentalist, and diplomat with over two decades of experience in climate policy worldwide. As the founder and CEO of HATOF Foundation, he has championed initiatives that secured over $150 million grants in climate finance for Ghana, addressing urgent environmental challenges.

An influential figure on the global stage, Dr. Dotse is an accredited observer to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, serves as Africa’s Special Envoy on Climate Change for the International Society of Diplomats. From Ghana to the global arena, Dr. Samuel Dotse continues to drive collaboration and sustainable solutions for a better planet. His past leadership within the African Union ECOSOCC has strengthened regional and global diplomatic engagement and bridged grassroots action to address climate change.

His organization, HATOF Foundation, since its establishment in 1999, has become one of the vibrant national NGOs engaged in energy, environmental governance and climate policy processes working towards addressing a range of issues including climate change and finance, renewable energy and energy efficiency, conservation and environmental protection, sustainable management of natural resources, and protection of human health and well-being.

Held every five years since 2000, the Millennium Excellence Awards celebrate individuals and institutions demonstrating leadership and impact. Over the years, the awards have recognized over 100 honourees for exceptional achievements and service to society, with this year's ceremony marking the fifth edition.

As Ghana and the global community navigate the complex challenges of climate change, Dr. Dotse’s recognition serves as a powerful reminder of what dedicated climate advocacy, innovation, and policy influence can achieve. His work through the HATOF Foundation continues to inspire action, collaboration, and resilience, charting a path toward a greener, more equitable Ghana.