By Elizabeth PUNSU
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has received US$100,000 from the Bloomberg Philanthropies Climate Action Fund to support youth-led initiatives aimed at addressing climate change.
This funding follows KMA’s successful completion of Round 1 of the Youth Climate Action Fund in 2024. During Round one, KMA was awarded US$50,000 – which was distributed to 14 youth groups living in Kumasi. These groups engaged approximately 2,400 young people in innovative solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change.
KMA’s continued participation in the programme represents a significant step toward fostering a more sustainable future.
With doubled funding and prior experience, this round will provide the city an opportunity to deepen collaboration, support impactful projects and inspire the next generation of local youth leaders.
Under Round 2 funding KMA will establish another microgrant programme, inviting youth groups aged 15 to 24 and their supporting organisations to submit project proposals. These proposals must align with the city’s established climate goals and outline innovative plans for engaging youth in activities that demonstrate measurable community impact. Advisory committees will review the submissions and select most promising projects for funding and implementation.
Selected youth groups will receive microgrants ranging from US$1,000 to US$5,000 to implement projects that align with Kumasi’s climate action strategies.
Speaking at the launch of Bloomberg Philanthropies Climate Action Fund Round 2 in Kumasi, KMA Coordinating Director Francis Dwira Darko urged youth in the city to participate actively.
“We encourage proposals tailored to the Kumasi context, promoting sustainable development in our beloved city. Funds will be provided to selected youth groups and the project implementation committee will monitor strict adherence to project guidelines and utilisation of funds,” he said.
Mr. Darko further announced the processes interested youth groups can follow to participate in this project.
“From Monday, 3rd February 2025, youth groups can visit the official city website at www.kma.gov.gh to download application forms for free. All requirements and eligibility criteria have been clearly outlined. Completed forms can be submitted online via [email protected] or in person at the Development Planning Unit of KMA by Friday, 21st February 2025.”
About the Youth Climate Action Fund
The Youth Climate Action Fund was announced at the Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Innovation Studio during the COP28 UAE Local Climate Action Summit on 2nd December 2023. It aims to empower young people aged 15 to 24 to co-create and lead climate solutions through technical support and funding from Bloomberg Philanthropies.
In Round 2 of the Youth Climate Action Fund, more than 90 cities across five continents will receive an additional US$100,000 each to support youth-led climate initiatives.
