In a collaborative move to deepen climate education and action within local governance, the leadership of Frontline for Climate Action held a productive kick-off meeting with Honorable Mrs. Mercy Y.A.A Odoi, the Sub-Metro Director of Ashiedu Keteke, the Chairman of Unit Committee Members Mr. Charles Kotey and other officials of the sub metro. Representing Frontline for Climate Action, Finance Lead Afia Bemah and Executive Director Cedric Dzelu expressed the organization’s commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development in collaboration with the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).
Mission of the Visit
The visit primarily served as an opportunity for the team from Frontline for Climate Action to introduce themselves to the sub-metro director and the leadership of the Ashiedu Keteke sub-metro. They extended an invitation to Hon. Mrs. Odoi to participate in an upcoming workshop, where she is slated to play a dual role as both a speaker and panelist, bringing invaluable insights to the discourse.
Moreover, Frontline for Climate Action sought Hon. Mrs. Odoi’s leadership and guidance on their project, "Integrating Climate Change Education in Local Governance and Development." By aligning with the Ashiedu Keteke sub-metro, Frontline for Climate Action aims to foster a partnership that supports their mutual goals in sustainable climate action and community education.
Building on Existing Climate Partnerships
Hon. Mrs. Odoi emphasized the assembly’s dedication to climate action through its ongoing collaboration with C40 Cities, a global network supporting climate action at the local government level. She highlighted key figures in this initiative, including Mr. Clottey from the Waste Management Department (Kaneshie) and Mr. Evans Adjei from AMA, who have been instrumental in spearheading climate-related efforts.
The sub-metro director stressed the importance of educating the community on the climate impacts of everyday activities, stating, "Our activities have impacted our climate, and it is crucial that we educate our people about these impacts without politicizing the issue." She emphasized the need for climate awareness to start at the grassroots level, noting that when communities understand the causes and consequences of climate change, they are better equipped to adapt and advocate for sustainable practices.
Commitment to Partnership and Capacity Building
Hon. Mrs. Odoi expressed her enthusiasm for partnering with Frontline for Climate Action, underscoring the significant roles played by the District Environmental Health Officers (DEHO) and District Coordinating Officers (DCO) in implementing sustainable practices across the metro. She encouraged Frontline for Climate Action to focus on addressing capacity and logistical needs within the sub-metro, emphasizing that these resources are essential for effective climate programming.
Frontline for Climate Action echoed the call to strengthen logistical capacities, affirming their willingness to support the sub-metro’s goals through resource provision, training, and community engagement initiatives. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to long-term collaboration, recognizing the urgency of integrating climate education into local governance.
Looking Forward
As both organizations prepare for the upcoming workshop, this collaboration represents a pivotal step in achieving community-centered climate resilience in Accra. By fostering awareness, supporting local leaders, and empowering grassroots communities, Frontline for Climate Action and the Ashiedu Keteke sub-metro are laying a foundation for sustainable, climate-resilient urban development.
With Hon. Mrs. Odoi’s guidance, Frontline for Climate Action looks forward to an impactful partnership, as they work together to address climate challenges while uplifting the capacities of the communities they serve.
Peter Martin
Project Lead
Frontline for Climate Action
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