Source: GNA
Mustapha Ussif, the Minister for Youth and Sports in Ghana, has made a passionate plea to world leaders, urging them to create a global fund dedicated to building urban resilience. He believes that such a fund could support youth-led projects aimed at addressing the various challenges faced by urban areas worldwide.
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Speaking at the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum in New York, Mr. Ussif emphasized the importance of involving young people in efforts to combat climate change and enhance environmental sustainability. He highlighted Ghana’s own initiatives, such as the “green Ghana day,” during which over 10 million seedlings were planted in 2023, as evidence of the positive impact youth can have on environmental stewardship.
As the Member of Parliament for Yagaba-Kubori constituency, Mr. Ussif stressed the urgent need for innovative solutions to tackle issues like pollution and emissions. He pointed to Ghana’s commitment to environmental sustainability through policies like the National Climate Change and Green Jobs Policy, which promotes the use of eco-friendly construction materials like interlocking bricks.
Mr. Ussif underscored the importance of empowering youth in the fight against climate change. He called for the establishment of the Global Urban Resilience Fund, as well as International Youth Innovation Hubs, to provide young people with the necessary resources and mentorship to drive sustainable change. He believes that by investing in youth-led initiatives, world leaders can create more resilient and sustainable communities.
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The ECOSOC Youth Forum, organized by the United Nations, serves as a vital platform for young people to contribute to policy discussions and share innovative ideas. Mr. Ussif urged stakeholders to rally behind these initiatives, recognizing the pivotal role that young people play in shaping a more sustainable future for all.
In recent years, urban areas around the world have faced growing challenges, ranging from environmental degradation to social inequality. Rapid urbanization, coupled with the impacts of climate change, has placed significant strain on infrastructure and resources in cities globally. As a result, there is an urgent need for innovative solutions to address these complex issues and build resilience in urban communities.
Mr. Ussif’s call for the establishment of a Global Urban Resilience Fund comes at a critical time when the world is grappling with the consequences of urbanization and climate change. By investing in youth-led projects and initiatives, world leaders can tap into the creativity and energy of young people to develop innovative solutions to urban challenges.
Ghana’s own efforts to promote environmental sustainability serve as a model for other countries seeking to address similar issues. The “green Ghana day” initiative, in particular, demonstrates the power of collective action in making a positive impact on the environment. By engaging youth in activities like tree planting, Ghana has been able to not only improve its urban landscapes but also foster a sense of environmental responsibility among its citizens.
The establishment of the Global Urban Resilience Fund would provide much-needed support to youth-led initiatives like these, enabling them to scale up their efforts and make a greater impact. By providing funding, mentorship, and resources to young people, the fund could help unlock their full potential as drivers of change in their communities.
In addition to financial support, Mr. Ussif emphasized the importance of providing young people with access to International Youth Innovation Hubs, where they can collaborate with peers from around the world and access training and mentorship opportunities. By connecting young innovators and entrepreneurs, these hubs could facilitate the exchange of ideas and promote the development of innovative solutions to urban challenges.
Ultimately, the success of initiatives like the Global Urban Resilience Fund will depend on the commitment and collaboration of stakeholders at all levels, from national governments to local communities. By working together to support youth-led initiatives, we can build more resilient and sustainable urban communities that are better equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century.
In conclusion, Mr. Ussif’s call for the establishment of a Global Urban Resilience Fund highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to address the complex challenges facing urban areas worldwide. By investing in youth-led initiatives and providing them with the necessary support and resources, we can build more resilient and sustainable cities that are better prepared to face the challenges of the future.