By Samuel SAM
In a bid to tackle climate change and its global impacts, the Centre for Culture and Environmental Conservation (CECECON), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has been officially inaugurated at the Tamale Technical University (TaTU) in the Sagnarigu Municipality of the Northern Region.
The organization aims to sensitise and advocate climate change awareness, in collaboration between NGOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues.
Lead Climate Change Response at the Savannah Agricultural Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-SARI), Dr. Alhassan Lansah Abdulai, highlighted the urgency of the situation, attributing current weather patterns to failed measures and stressing the need for conservation efforts, including forest reserves and tree planting.
Director of the Institute of African Studies (IAS) at the University of Ghana, Prof. Samuel Aniegye Ntewusus, warned of the changing cultural, economic, social, and political practices influenced by climate change.
He emphasised the detrimental effects on economic activities, such as the unsustainable harvesting of Shea and Dawadawa trees for charcoal production, which adversely impacts the environment.
CECECON’s Executive Director, John Ntewusu, outlined the organization’s mission to advocate and sensitize on climate change, culture, and the environment locally and internationally. CECECON aims to become a center of excellence in research and advocacy on climate change and environmental degradation, promoting climate-smart agriculture and innovative projects to address current challenges.
“Our mission is to become a Centre of excellence in research and advocacy on issues of climate change and environmental degradation in Ghana and to promote climate smart agriculture in Ghana,” he said.
Board Member and Operations Manager for ALSA/RMG, Mr. Seidu Nanundow, affirmed the organization’s commitment to collaborate with research institutions, stakeholders, and partnerships to advance advocacy programs. Additionally, CECECON plans to educate smallholders on best agronomic practices to enhance crop yields and food production in their operational areas.
