Thank you for this platform created to advocate for better policies and ACTIONS on climate change. What is happening in Kenya is evidence of a greater and alarming struggle for food, clean water, good air and environment in Africa. The world jatropha summit was secretly held in Ghana a few weeks past, and my organization (Ghana national youth coalition on climate change and enchi youth parliament) joined other food security network of CSOs in Ghana, to present opinion/policy statements to participants.
Unfortunately, it seems our leaders and traditional land owners are just considering the profit they will secure today, as against the livelihoods, basic human rights and long-term effects on the larger populations.
Large acres of fertile lands are sold out for the cultivation of jatropha---without comprehensive national policy on the issue and its effects to other sectors.
We are also weak in funds and capacity to engage in nationwide or even intensive community sensitization of the effect of human and unplanned development on climate and livelihoods. Development partners, should assist CSOs to offer knowledge/evidence based advocacy for a comprehensive - socially accepted and environmentally friendly biofuel policies.
Thank you.
Frank mensah
Projects Director
Enchi youth parliament
Ghana national coalition on climate change (coordinator-w/r)
This article is in response to:
The drying of the Tana Delta, Kenyawithin the topic:
Early Impacts on the Frontlines
